complete train control - digitrax, inc. · pdf file4.1 the decoder won’t respond ......

Mobile & Sound Decoder ManualSecond Edition

Includes:Digitrax Series 3, 4, 5 & 6

Mobile, Sound & Function Decoders

Digitrax, Inc.2443 Transmitter Road

Panama City, Florida 32404 www.digitrax.com

LocoNet

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Digitrax Manuals & Instructions are updated periodically. Please visit www.digitrax.com

For the latest version of all manuals & instructions. This manual was updated 11/17

CTC

ompleterainontrol

Digitrax Mobile & Sound Decoder Manual

Second Edition

Table of Contents

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1.0 Introduction .............................................................62.0 Digitrax Mobile and Sound Decoder Overview ...6

2.1 Digitrax Decoder Part Numbering System .........................73.0 Decoder Installation ................................................9

3.1 Decoder Installation Basic Steps ........................................93.2 Choosing a Locomotive .......................................................93.3 Choosing The “Right” Decoder ........................................10

3.3.1 The Digitrax On-Line Decoder Selector .....................103.3.2 What Is Your Loco’s Stall Current? ............................103.3.3 Which Decoder Will Fit? ..............................................113.3.4 Decoder Interfaces for Installation .............................123.3.4.1 Plug ‘N Play and Board Replacement Interfaces ...123.3.4.2 Digitrax 9 Pin HO & 8 Pin N Decoder Interfaces ....143.3.4.3 Installing Decoders with Wires ................................143.3.5 Decoder Features-LocoMotion .....................................163.3.6 Decoder Functions-Lights, Sound, Etc. .....................163.3.7 SoundFX Decoders ......................................................17

3.4 Read the Instructions .........................................................173.5 Plan the Installation ...........................................................173.6 Have the Proper Tools At Hand .........................................173.7 Testing Decoders Before Installation ................................183.8 Locomotive Disassembly ...................................................203.9 Electrically Isolating the Motor ..........................................213.10 Installing Lighting Effects ................................................233.11 Installing Power Xtenders ................................................233.12 Final Decoder Test ............................................................243.13 Avoiding Heat Problems with Installations ....................24

4.0 General Decoder Troubleshooting ..................... 254.1 The decoder won’t respond ...............................................254.2 The decoder runs for a while & then just stops ..............264.3 Loco operation is jerky & erratic .......................................264.4 “Strange” locomotive light operation ...............................264.5 The locomotive won’t move at all ......................................264.6 Locomotive “buzzes” ..........................................................274.7 The Quarter Trick ................................................................274.8 Are your LocoNet Cables built correctly? ........................274.9 Getting Help .........................................................................27

5.0 Decoder Programming ......................................... 285.1 What are Configuration Variables (CVs)? .........................285.2 Service Mode and Ops Mode Programming Methods .....285.3 Programming Modes ...........................................................285.4 DCC Outputs: Programming & Layout Operation ...........295.5 Reading & Writing CVs .......................................................29

6.0 CVs-Configuration Variables .............................. 307.0 Basic Decoder Setup CVs .................................... 34

7.1 Decoder Addresses .............................................................347.1.1 Decoder 2 Digit Address: CV01 ..................................357.1.2 Decoder 4 Digit Address: CV17 & CV18 ....................35

7.2 Configuration Register: CV29 ............................................367.2.1 Characteristics Controlled by CV29 ...........................367.2.2 Determining CV Value To Program Into CV29 ...........37

8.0 LocoMotion CVs .................................................... 408.1 Acceleration and Deceleration Rates ...............................40

8.1.1 Acceleration Rate: CV03 ..............................................408.1.2 Deceleration Rate: CV04 ..............................................40

8.2 Throttle Response Curves & Loadable Speed Tables ....418.2.1 Simple 3 Step Speed Table .......................................428.2.2 V-Start: CV02 ................................................................428.2.3 V-Max: CV05 ..................................................................428.2.4 V-Mid: CV06 ..................................................................428.2.5 Simple 3 Step Speed Table Examples .......................43

8.3 High Res 28 Step Loadable Speed Tables CV65-95 .........438.4 CV54 Torque Compensation, Switching Speed & Decoder Lock Disable ...............................................................................468.5 Scaleable Speed Stabilization (Back EMF) .......................478.6 Advanced Consist Address CV19 .....................................508.7 CV61 Transponding & LED/Lamp Algorithm Selector ....50

8.7.1 Transponding Feed Back From Decoders ..................508.7.2 LED/Lamp Algorithm Selector ....................................518.7.3 CV61 Values: Transponding & Lighting Algorithm ..51

8.8 CV09 SuperSonic (Quiet Operation) ................................529.0 Function CVs ......................................................... 52

9.1 Digitrax Light Effects: CV49-CV52 & CV113-CV116.........529.2 Setting Up FX3 Effects On Function Outputs ...................529.3 Commonly Used FX3 Effects On Function Outputs ........53

9.3.1 Simple On/Off Function ..............................................549.3.2 Forward Ditch Lights Operating on F2 ......................549.3.3 Rear Ditch Lights Operating on F3 & F4 ...................559.3.4 Mars Lights On F1 ........................................................569.3.5 Rotary Beacon on F1 ...................................................56

9.3.6 Rule 17 Dimming on F0Fwd and F0Rev .....................569.3.7 Rule 17 AND Forward Ditch Lights ............................579.3.8 Alternating Double Pulse Strobes on F1 & F2 ..........57

9.4 Tables for Determining FX3 CV Values .............................589.5 FX3 Rate & Keep Alive Brightness CV62 ..........................599.6 Ditch Light Hold Over Time CV63 ......................................609.7 Troubleshooting FX effects ................................................619.8 Setting Up A Master Light Switch with FX3 Decoders ....619.9 Lamp Selection For Prototypical Lighting Results ..........619.10 Setting Up Non-FX Functions ..........................................629.11 Advanced Consist Function Controls CV21 & CV22 .....639.12 Function Mapping .............................................................63

9.12.1 Function Mapping Example .......................................6510.0 Decoder Utility CVs ............................................. 66

10.1 Factory Reset CV: 08 ........................................................6610.2 Decoder Lock CV15, CV16 & CV54..................................6610.3 Decoder ID CVs 105, 106, 07, 08 ......................................68

11.0 Digitrax SoundFX System .................................. 6811.1 Sound Decoder Installation ...............................................69

11.1.1 Speaker and Baffle Installation ..................................6911.1.2 Sound Hold Up Capacitor or Power Xtender? ........70

11.2 Programming SoundFX Decoders ...................................7011.3 Change Sound Scheme: CV60 .........................................7111.4 Customizing Sound Schemes CV132-CV256 .................7111.5 Diesel Notching CV132 & 155 ..........................................7211.6 Steam Chuff/Cam & Gear Rotation Trim CV133 & 134 ..7211.7 Bell and Air Effect Rates CV146-149 ...............................7311.8 Auto Coupler Sequence Threshold Value CV151 ..........7311.9 Example: Changing a Sound Scheme on SDXH166D ...7311.10 Loading Sound Projects into your SoundFX Decoder .7411.11 SoundFX DC Operation Mode .........................................7611.12 Downloading & Installing Sound Projects .....................7611.13 Modifying Sound Project Files ........................................7611.14 SoundFX Decoder Troubleshooting ...............................77

12.0 Operation With Digitrax Command Stations .... 7813.0 Operating Digitrax Decoders On DC Track ...... 7814.0 Decimal & Hex Numbers .................................... 7915.0 Warranty & Repair Information .......................... 79

Digitrax products incorporate material covered by multiple US Patents and Trade Secret Information. For complete information on Digitrax patents, trade-marks and other intellectual property, see the legal section of our website.

Digitrax Sound Definition Language, used for generating projects for SoundFX decoders, is covered by US Patent 8,229,582. All sound projects created using this format may be shared with others but may not be sold except under license from Digitrax, Inc.

Digitrax, the Digitrax Train Logo, LocoNet, Super Empire Builder Xtra, Super Chief Xtra, Duplex Equipped, Radio Equipped, AutoReversing, FX, UniVersal Consisting, Zephyr Xtra, Transponding, Jump, SoundFX & others are trade-marks of Digitrax, Inc.

This manual may not be reproduced in any form or translated without written permission from Digitrax.

Digitrax, Inc. reserves the right to make changes in design and specifications, and/or to make changes, additions and/or improvements in its products without any obligation to install these changes, additions and/or improvements on prod-ucts previously manufactured.

Digitrax, Inc. is not responsible for unintentional errors or omissions in this document.

Printed in USA All Rights Reserved

© 2017 Digitrax, Inc. www.digitrax.com- 6 -

1.0 IntroductionCongratulations on your purchase of a Digitrax Digital Command Control Decoder for your locomotive. It is engineered to give you both exciting DCC and Digitrax Complete Train Control features at a reasonable price. Digitrax mobile decoders work with DCC compatible systems. Many Digitrax decoders also go beyond DCC compatibility to offer additional Complete Train Control features like sound, realistic FX3 effects, analog mode conversion, speed stabi-lization, transponding and more.

Digitrax offers many decoders that are simple to install however, in some cases decoder installations are more challenging. Most model railroaders have the common sense, judgment and skills needed to successfully install decoders. It is important to carefully follow the directions included in this manual and in the decoder specific instruction sheets you receive with each decoder. If you choose to have someone else install decoders in your locomotives, your local Digitrax Authorized Dealer can handle the installation or can refer you to someone who can do the job for you.

Thank you for choosing Digitrax! Please feel free to contact us or your Digitrax Authorized Dealer with any questions or concerns you might have about our products. We are always looking for ways to make our products bet-ter so, let us know what you think!

2.0 Digitrax Mobile and Sound Decoder Overview Digitrax mobile decoders are just one part of your Complete Train Control system. When properly installed in your locomotives, they will receive the commands sent from your command station through the rails, decode the com-mands and control the motor, function and, in some cases, sound operation of your locomotives.

Digitrax makes a wide variety of decoders with many different features. This lets you choose which decoder is best for each individual locomotive. All Digitrax decoders are robust, reliable and quiet running.

Digitrax builds economy decoders with fewer features, mid range decoders with more features and premium decoders with even more advanced features.

Visit our online Decoder Selector at www.digitrax.com/decoderselector for help selecting the decoder that will work best in your locomotive.

The Decoder Instruction Sheet included with your decoder lists the features of the decoder and includes specific information about how to install the decoder and any special uses of CVs in conjunction with the decoder. This Manual explains the features available in current production Series 3, 4,


5 and 6 Digitrax decoders. This Mobile Decoder Manual and all Decoder Instruction Sheets are available at www.digitrax.com. In addition, the first edition of the Digitrax Mobile Decoder Manual is available at www.digitrax.com for pre-Series 4 decoders that are no longer in production.

Specification sheets and Instruction Sheets for all Digitrax decoders past and present are available at www.digitrax.com

2.1 Digitrax Decoder Part Numbering SystemCurrent production Digitrax mobile decoders use the following numbering/naming system:

All motor + function decoders begin with a “D” for digital decoder.

All sound + motor + function decoders begin with either SD or SDX:SD is a standard sound decoder with 8-bit sound.SDX is a premium sound decoder with 16-bit sound.

The next character indicates physical size. This is based on the smallest “scale” the decoder is designed to fit. This will be a Z, N, H, O, or G.

The next character is the current rating. This is 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5. We designate 1.25 & 1.5 amp decoders as 1 and 3.5 amp decoders as 3 for simplicity and as a conservative rating.

The next character is the number of function outputs, including direc-tional lights. This is not necessarily the number of function leads. In some cases, function output pads are provided so leads can be added to operate additional functions. Consult your decoder instruction sheet for the location and function output numbers associated with these output pads.

The next character is a Digitrax series designator. Series 3, 4, 5 & 6 decoders are current production decoders. These have FX3 function outputs, torque compensation, supersonic (silent operation), scaleable speed stabilization (Back EMF) and transponding.

Series 3 decoders with less than 6 functions have a modified set of features. See decoder descriptions for actual features available in each decoder.

Series 4 & 5 decoders have all the features of Series 3 plus support for sound on board or the ability to add sound using a SoundBug sound only decoder. Series 4 sound decoders are 3 voice, 8-bit sound/motor/function decoders.


Series 5 decoders are capable of hosting Sound Bug add-on sound decoders.

Series 6 decoders have optimized LED and lamp lighting algorithms, have improved scaleable speed stabilization (Back EMF), work with Digitrax Power Xtenders to improve performance in the presence of power interruptions and have configurable FX3 pulse function on all function outputs. Sound equipped Series 6 decoders are available with 8 or 16 bit sound.

Additional letters and numbers at the end of the decoder number indicate the decoder’s installation interface. Manufacturer designations are followed by a design number, 0-9, and sub-design letter, a-z, when there is more than one version of a particular design. If the decoder number ends after the series number, then it is a wired decoder.

TABLE I: Digitrax Decoder Part Numbers For Installation InterfacesDesignation Installation InterfacesBlank or W Wired or Digitrax 9 pin to wiresD Digitrax 9 pin to wiresIP Integrated DCC Medium PlugIN Integrated DCC 6 pin N-Scale PlugP DCC Medium Plug Long 3.25” wire harnessPS DCC Medium Plug Short 1.25” (HO) or 2” (N) wire harnessS Screw terminals provided for installationT Smaller version of regular scale size decoder-tinyAT Athearn No Solder Harness for Blue Box Installation

(Discontinued Interface)

Designation Manufacturer Specific Interfaces: Followed by additional designators for specific board types

K Kato board replacementA Atlas board replacementL LifeLike/Walthers board replacementI InterMountain board replacementM MicroTrainsMK Marklin board replacementQ QSI board replacementZ AZL board replacementAR Aristocraft G Scale Plug


Digitrax Decoder Numbering Examples:

DH163 is a series 3 wired decoder that fits HO scale, is rated for at least 1 amp & has 6 function outputs. This decoder is actually rated at 1.5 amps.

DH165A0 is a series 5 board replacement decoder that fits HO scale Atlas locomotives that use the version “0” board, is rated for at least 1 amp, has 6 function outputs and can host a sound only decoder.

SDXH166D is a Series 6 wired premium sound decoder that fits HO scale, is rated for at least 1 amp, and has 6 FX3 function outputs.

Visit our online Decoder Selector at www.digitrax.com/decoderselector for help selecting the best decoder for your locomotive.

3.0 Decoder InstallationEach Digitrax decoder comes with an instruction sheet that shows you the spe-cifics of how to install it in a locomotive. There are also additional installation application notes and installation videos available at www.digitrax.com/sup-port. The following sections explain decoder installation in general.

3.1 Decoder Installation Basic Steps1. Choose a locomotive that runs well on regular DC because adding a

decoder will NOT improve mechanical operation.2. Choose the appropriate decoder for your installation.3. READ the instructions.4. PLAN the installation.5. Have the proper tools on hand.6. Test the decoder before installation.7. Carefully disassemble the loco without losing any parts.8. Isolate the motor! Current to the motor from the pick ups should

flow only through the decoder and NOT through the frame.9. Follow the decoder’s wiring diagram or installation instructions for

installing motor, sound and function components.10. Test the installation first on DC then on DCC.

3.2 Choosing a LocomotiveChoose a locomotive that runs well on conventional DC power. Digital decoders don’t compensate for faulty motor operation, poor track pickup, or other problems with a locomotive’s mechanical operation. If you are not happy with the way your locomotive runs on DC power, installing a decoder will not make it run any better.


If there are mechanical issues with your locomotive, fix them before you install the decoder. Since you have to open up the loco anyway, do a tune up before you install the decoder. Digitrax recommends using a conductive brush lubri-cant like Aero Car Technology’s “Conducta” brush lubricant (aerocarlubri-cants.com) to minimize brush noise in all locos. Be sure the brushes are mak-ing reliable contact and that the commutator is clean.

Decide where the decoder will fit inside the loco. Is there space to put the decoder or will you need to “make room?” Is there a decoder made specifi-cally for the loco? Digitrax offers a variety of decoder sizes, form factors and current ratings to accommodate almost any locomotive. Check the Decoder Selector at www.digitrax.com for a list of recommendations. If there is just nowhere in the locomotive to install a decoder, it can be installed in a piece of rolling stock that is wired to the loco for controlling the motor or you can run it on your Digitrax system as an analog locomotive on address “00.”

3.3 Choosing The “Right” Decoder

3.3.1 The Digitrax On-Line Decoder SelectorThe Digitrax On-line Decoder Selector is an on-line list of decoder recom-mendations for specific locomotives. Visit www.digitrax.com/decoderselector to use the Decoder Selector. The Decoder Selector is also part of the Digitrax Toolbox App for mobile devices. Most Digitrax Authorized Dealers can also help you determine which decoder will work best in your locomotive.

4 Steps To Choosing the Right Decoder for Your Loco1. Is there a decoder made for your specific loco? Check the Decoder

Selector at www.digitrax.com/decoderselector for specific decoderrecommendations for specific locomotives. If so, you can skip steps 2 & 3.

2. What is the stall current of the motor in the locomotive?3. How much room do you have available inside the loco?4. Do you want a decoder that does motor and function control and

would you like to add sound? If you are planning a sound installa-tion, remember you’ll need to have room for the speaker and sound hold up capacitor.

3.3.2 What Is Your Loco’s Stall Current?For HO locomotives, most modern high efficiency can motors draw less than 1/2 amp when running and less than 1 amp when stalled at 12V DC. These motors will use 1 amp & 1.5 amp decoders. Some older HO motor designs (older Athearn open frame motors, Pittman motors, etc.) may exceed these lim-its and will need a higher current decoder for better long term reliability. Most current production Digitrax decoders are rated for at least 1 amp, even if they


are designated as N or Z sized decoders. That means that our N & Z decoders are suitable for use in HO locomotives where space is tight.

For N & Z scale locomotives most modern high efficiency can motors draw less than 1/2 amp when running and less than 1 amp when stalled at 12V DC. However, we have found that many high performance N-scale locos actually draw more than this and are comparable to HO locos. To ensure long-term reli-ability, all current production Digitrax decoders are rated at 1 amp or more.

For large scale locomotives, it is particularly important to test the specific loco you will use to determine the appropriate decoder to use. In many cases for O, S, O-27 & G scale Digitrax 3, 4, or 5 amp decoders will the best choice. If your installation has 2 or more motors, you will need to consider the stall currents for both motors to determine the best decoder to use. In large scale, there are often variations in the way locomotives are built so, it is important to assess each individual locomotive before proceeding with decoder installation.

How to Determine The Stall Current Of A Locomotive

1. Place the loco (without the shell) on a track powered with regularDC at 12V for HO & N Scales (Use 16V for G Scale).

2. Attach a DC current meter (ammeter) in series with one of thetrack feeds. A power pack with an ammeter is good for this test.

3. Apply DC power to the track (12V for HO/N, 16V for largerscales).

4. Stop the motor from rotating by holding the fly wheel or driveshafts for a couple of seconds and measure the current that theunit is drawing from the power pack while the motor is stalled.

5. Be sure that the power pack voltage remains at 12V (16V for GScale) during this test to be sure you get an accurate stall cur-rent measurement.

6. Choose a decoder with at least the current rating determined withthis test. Digitrax recommends using the decoder with the high-est current rating that will fit in your locomotive for long term reliability.

3.3.3 Which Decoder Will Fit?The space available inside the locomotive is a major factor in choosing which decoder to use for your installation. Many sizes & form factors are available.

Visit www.digitrax.com/decoderselector to see our recommendations for many locomotives. Complete information, including size measurements, for each decoder is available in the product section of the website. Instruction Sheets


for specific decoders which include installation examples are also available on our web site. Our website has decoder installation videos to guide you and your local dealer can show you examples of decoders and help you determine the best one to use for your installation.

For installations in small spaces, Z and N scale decoders are rated at 1 amp or more and will work fine in HO scale locomotives.

The Digitrax Tech Support Depot at www.digitrax.com/support, has links to application notes and videos for installations in many different locomotives.

3.3.4 Decoder Interfaces for InstallationEach locomotive has its own set of issues surrounding installation. Current production locomotives often have easy installation interfaces that allow you to simply plug in a decoder or replace a circuit board inside the loco. Other locomotives, particularly really small ones, may require a soldered installation. Sound decoders are a challenge because of speaker & hold up capacitor instal-lation requirements in addition to the decoder itself.

3.3.4.1 Plug ‘N Play and Board Replacement InterfacesMany locomotives come from the factory with provisions for decoder instal-lation. Some locomotives come with the decoder pre-installed. Manufacturers use several terms for these locos. Be sure to read the box and examine the loco so you know what you are getting. Some “plug ‘n play/board replacement” decoders require special installation steps. Be sure to read the instructions.

DCC Ready Locomotives: These locomotives are usually equipped with a DCC medium socket, though you may find some locos where this terminology means that there is room for a decoder. Be sure to check this before purchas-ing the locomotive

DCC Medium Socket: This diagram shows the DCC medium plug that is widely used with HO locomotives that come from the manufacturer with the DCC medium socket. The color code refers to the wire colors on a DCC wire harness. To install a decoder in a loco with a DCC medium socket, remove the dummy plug that comes with the locomotive and insert a decoder with a DCC medium plug in the socket.

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Digitrax offers the DCC medium plug in three variations:

IP - Integrated Plug where the DCC medium plug is built in to the decoder itself with no wires.

P - DCC Medium Plug on a long harness with 3.2” wires for installation where the decoder body will be located away from the socket site.

PS - DCC Medium Plug on a short harness with 1.2” wires for installation in HO Scale and 2” wires for installation in N Scale where the decoder body will be near the socket.

Digitrax 9 Pin HO: The Digitrax 9 pin socket & plug is another commonly used DCC plug ‘n play interface

that is available in some HO locos.

Integral 6 Pin N Scale Socket: The 6 pin integral socket is used in N scale locomotives where 8 pins won’t fit. The 6 pin “IN” type decoders have 6 fine pins integrated into the edge of the decoder to

fit the socket. Also called NEM651 plug.

Board Replacement Decoders: In this case decoders are designed for specific locomotives. Board replacement installations require you to remove an existing circuit board and replace it with a board replacement decoder. This may

involve adding insulating tape inside the loco and/or building up solder pads to insure good electrical contact. While not always completely “plug ‘n play,” board replacements are usually much more convenient that wired installations.

Decoder Equipped Locomotives: These locomotives are equipped with decoders at the factory. These pre-installed decoders may have minimal fea-tures. If you want additional features, you may wish to replace the decoder that came with a loco with one that has more features. In some cases you have the option to purchase a loco with or without a decoder. Evaluate the features offered before deciding which one best fits your needs. DCC compatible decoders shipped with locomotives should work with your Digitrax system but will not have the same feature set as you Digitrax decoders.


3.3.4.2 Digitrax 9 Pin HO & 8 Pin N Decoder InterfacesSome Digitrax HO & N scale decoders come with a plug and socket on the decoder so that the wire harness can be unplugged from the decoder. This inter-face lets you share one or more decoders among multiple locomotives wired with the corresponding harnesses and lets you use dummy plugs for operation on DC.

Wire Harnesses: DHWH (9 pin for HO) and DNWH (8 pin for N) have a plug that attaches to your decoder and wires that are soldered to the motor, brushes and functions on your locomotive during installation. The HO wire harnesses also come in both short and long versions with a plug on one end and DCC medium plug on the other end. The N scale version comes in the short version only with the DCC medium plug.

Dummy Plugs: DHDP (HO) and DNDP (N) are available for DC operation of harnessed locomotives (without decoders). When you install a wire harness in your locomotive and plug a dummy plug into it, your loco will operate on any analog control system and will run on DCC as an analog loco. When you remove the dummy plug and plug in a decoder, the loco will run on DCC.

To separate a Digitrax decoder from the Wire Harness:

Firmly hold all harness wires between thumb and forefinger approximately 5/8” back from the plug. Grasp the decoder body on the sides right next to the socket to ensure no stresses are placed on components under the protective sleeve. Pull gently and evenly on all wires simultaneously. Distribute the force needed to separate the plug and socket EVENLY over all the wires to prevent damage to the plug.

3.3.4.3 Installing Decoders with WiresIn some cases, especially in older locomotives, brass locomotives and really tiny locomotives, there is no special harness arrangement, plug ‘n play installation or board replacement option available. In these cases, the decoder wires are soldered into the locomotive.


Refer to TABLE II for Digitrax Mobile Decoder Standard for Wire Colors and Figure 1 Digitrax Decoder Wiring Diagram for general instructions and the specific Decoder Instruction Sheet that came with your decoder for specific instructions for the decoder you are installing. See Figure 2 for lamp installa-tion information.

TABLE II: Digitrax Mobile Decoder Wire ColorsWhat the wires are for Wire ColorPower Pick-up Right (Engineer’s Side) RedPower Pick-up Left (Fireman’s Side) BlackMotor + Right Brush OrangeMotor - Left Brush GreyF0(FWD)-Forward Light WhiteF0(REV)-Reverse Light YellowLamp Common BlueF1-Function 1 GreenF2-Function 2 VioletF3-Function 3 BrownF4-Function 4 White w/ Yellow StripeF5-Function 5 White w/ Green StripeF6-Function 6 White w/ Blue Stripe

Figure 1: Digitrax Decoder Wiring Diagram

Figure 1 Notes:Do not exceed the decoder’s total function output current rating. Blue (+ com-mon) must be hooked up to enable transponding. If Blue (+ common) is not used, connect function power to either track power pick up. The directional light function “Lamp Return Line” can be hooked to Blue (+ common) as shown or to either track pick-up.


3.3.5 Decoder Features-LocoMotionFeatures control the movement of the locomotive and other operating charac-teristics. Digitrax LocoMotion® System lets you customize your locomotive so it runs like the real thing. These LocoMotion features are set up using CVs to customize the locomotive’s operation.

LocoMotion includes normal direction of travel, use of 3 step or 128 step s to customize throttle response, acceleration and deceleration rates, start-mid-max voltage settings, torque compensation, switching speed, consisting (basic, advanced or universal) and more.

3.3.6 Decoder Functions-Lights, Sound, Etc.Once you have determined the current rating and decoder size needed for your loco, consider what lighting and other on/off items installed in the locomotive you want to control from your throttle.

Functions are generally used for lamps, LEDs, uncoupling devices, controlling sound and other low current draw features you want to be able to control from your throttle. All Digitrax decoders are equipped with two or more function outputs that are used to turn functions on and off and set up special lighting effects called FX3. You can have reversing headlights or independently con-trolled headlights. You can map functions to operate on specific throttle keys. Series 6 decoders have lighting algorithms that are selectable for either lamps or LEDs. If you are using smoke generators or other high current devices, make sure you do not exceed the specified function current.

Function outputs can be in the form of :1. Leads (wires) soldered to the decoder at the factory that are used to

hook up functions.2. Pre-wired function outputs that work when the decoder is installed.

The forward and reverse lights on board replacement decoders arean example of pre-wired functions.

3. Solder pads on the decoder where function wires can be soldered bythe end user.

Some decoders have more than one form of function output. For exam-ple, the DN163K0A has two function outputs pre-wired to the white LEDs on the decoder and 4 additional solder pads available for add-ing wires to hook up more functions.

Check the decoder’s specifications to determine how many function outputs a particular decoder has available. Function only decoders, like the TL1 & TF4, can be used in addition to mobile decoders to add more standard on/off func-tions. TL1 & TF4 do not have FX3 capabilities.


Digitrax FX3 functions incorporate up to 8 FX generators that can be custom-ized. These FX3 function outputs can be mapped so they are controlled by any function key on your throttle. A master light switch can be set up to turn off all lights on a locomotive. Functions associated with advanced consists can be controlled, too.

Function outputs on Digitrax decoders are available in several current ratings depending on the decoder. These ratings are the total current available for activating and running the devices attached to ALL the function outputs on the decoder. Check your specific decoder’s specifications for the function current rating for your decoder.

3.3.7 SoundFX DecodersSound inside your locomotive is another factor to consider in decoder selection. Because sound installation requires additional space inside the locomotive for installing a hold up capacitor and a speaker with baffle, this must be considered during decoder selection.

3.4 Read the InstructionsDigitrax decoders are shipped with individual instruction sheets. These have specific instructions for each particular decoder. These are also available on-line along with installations that demonstrate how to do many different decoder installations.

3.5 Plan the InstallationPlanning ahead will make decoder installation easier to do.

3.6 Have the Proper Tools At HandYou’ll need a few simple tools when you begin installing decoders:

1. A temperature controlled low wattage soldering iron. Though manyinstallations do not require soldering, you may need to use a solder-ing iron to install LEDs and lamps for special lighting effects.

2. 0.015”-.032” rosin core solder for electronics3. Small screwdrivers and small shims for disassembling your loco.4. Small diagonal cutters for cutting & stripping small wire.5. Tweezers to pick up small loco parts.6. Heat shrink tubing for protecting wire connections, electrical tape is

NOT recommended.7. Tape for securing wires and the decoder inside the locomotive.

Digitrax provides Kapton tape with many decoders for electricallyinsulating the locomotive frame.

8. Decoder installation should be done in a static free environment on anon-metallic surface.


3.7 Testing Decoders Before InstallationDigitrax tests each decoder prior to shipping. That said, we strongly recom-mend testing by the installer before installation. The test procedure shows you how the decoder works and how to hook up the wires. Testing verifies that the decoder is working before you install it in a loco. Use the LT1 that came with your Digitrax Starter Set to perform the test as follows:

LT1 Diagram

(Top view-clip on top)

Wire orderin RJ12 plugBlueYellowGreenRedBlackWhite

HARNESS LT1 TESTER

Decoder Testing Diagram

R

F U N C M U S W C H

R

c

L O C O

Y +L

t

CBAB A C K

O P T N C L O CP W R

1 0 1 1 1 2

1 2 3

4 5 6

E N T E R0E X I T

7 8 9

D I S P

P R O G

E D I T

F I N D

_

RL

D T 4 0 2

N

E M R G

S T O P

Note: Recommended decoder input voltage is 12V DC peak

DigitraxThrottlemust beplugged in duringLT1 testing

Protection Resistor100 Ohm/2Watt


LT1 Decoder Testing Instructions

1. Strip the insulation from the red and yellow wires and twist themtogether.

2. Strip the insulation from the green and black wires and twist themtogether.

3. The blue and white wires are not used. They can be left on the har-ness.

4. Hook up decoder as shown here. If your decoder does not have wires,use alligator clips to make the appropriate connections to the pads orpins on your decoder.

5. Use your throttle to select the decoder and run it in the forward direc-tion.

6. One of the two center LEDs will light as the motor voltage increases.Change direction and the other LED will light.

7. Test the decoder function outputs by connecting the LT1 to the bluelamp common and one of the function outputs.

8. Use your throttle to turn the function on and off . One of the two cen-ter LEDs will go on and off with the function. Do this test for allfunction outputs separately.

Note: The LT1 can also be used to test LocoNet Cables by plugging in one end of the cable being tested into the LT1 and the other end into your command station or booster. At least one Digitrax throttle or Zephyr all-in-one unit must be plugged in to LocoNet. If all four LEDs light, the cable is good. Note that the LEDs may not all be the same brightness, this is normal. If any of the LEDs fail to light, remove the plug from on end of the cable and re crimp another one prior to re-testing the cable. Digitrax LocoNet Cable Maker Kit has everything you need to make repairs to LocoNet Cables.


3.8 Locomotive Disassembly

Before you begin, read the instruction sheet that came with your decoder. It is not possible for this manual to cover the specifics of each decoder individually, these are provided with the individual decoder and are also available online at www.digitrax.com.

1. Read the locomotive manufacturer’s disassembly instructions. Manyof these are available online. Making photos of the loco as you takeit apart can be a big help later if you need to go back.

2. Disassemble your loco carefully. You’ll need all the little parts later.3. Note how + and - motor connections & the left & right power pick up

connections are set up.4. Look carefully at the loco’s wiring & determine where all the wires go

and what they do before changing or disconnecting any of them.

The physical location of the decoder in the loco is important and may involve sculpting plastic and or metal parts to allow enough room for installation.

Install the decoder in the coolest part of the loco body. Recommended oper-ating temperatures should be between 70 & 120 degrees Fahrenheit (20-50 degrees Celsius).

When making wire connections inside the loco, use the shortest length of wire that will do the job. After the wires are attached and insulated with heat shrink sleeving, secure them so that repeated removal and replacement of the locomo-tive shell won’t pull the wires loose. The biggest cause of decoder failure after initial installation is wires being pulled loose and shorted to the frame when the shell is removed or replaced.


3.9 Electrically Isolating the Motor

Failure to isolate the motor will damage your decoder. For DC permanent magnet powered locomotives, the decoder must be electrically inserted between the track power pickups and the 2 motor brushes.

The most important part of any successful locomotive conversion is proper electrical isolation of the 2 motor brush connections, so that they are driv-en only by the decoder.

Once the motor is isolated, visually inspect the brushes again, just to be sure. Use a continuity checker (beeper box) to be sure there is an OPEN circuit (very high resistance) from both brushes to any other part of the locomotive chas-sis, power pickups and wheels. Check both motor brushes. If the circuit is not open, your beeper box will beep.

Only when you are satisfied that the motor is isolated, should you proceed with the decoder installation.

Some motor brush power connections may be tricky, like a spring to or inter-ference fit with part of the chassis. Some locos pick up brush power from the chassis through a spring. In this case, after removing the spring connection to the brush, wire the corresponding decoder power input to the chassis. Examine the loco carefully to determine how power moves from the track pickups to the motor.

Decoders with FX3 functions have motor isolation protection. If the decoder senses that the motor is not isolated, it will not run the motor. In this case, you will be able to control the loco’s functions but the motor will not work.

For board replacement decoders, it is important to follow the Decoder Instruction Sheet for the particular decoder when installing insulating tape inside the loco to prevent shorts during operation caused by the decoder board shifting inside the engine.


Reverse Lamp Yellow

Lamp Common

Forward Lamp White

Reverse Lamp Yellow

Operation With Blue LampCommon Connected

Lamp Common

Forward Lamp White

Reverse Lamp Yellow

Lamp Common Blue

Forward Lamp White

LED Cathode End

LED Cathode End

Preferred method.

Lamp brightness won't vary whenanalog locos are operated on the layout.

Transponding can be enabled.

* *

****

Figure 2: Lamp & LED Wiring Diagrams

1.5V Lamps

12V to 16V Lamps

LEDs

+- -

+

Note: LEDs are sensitive to polarity when hooked up. Typical resistor values range from 680 ohm to 1.5 kohm 1/4 watt.

*

Note: Current setting resistor. Typically 560 ohm 1/4 watt for grain of rice and 250 ohm 1/4 watt for grain of wheat. Lower resistance values to increase lamp brightness, min value is 100 ohms.Values vary depending on track voltage in use.

*

Forward Lamp White Reverse Lamp Yellow

Operation Without Blue Lamp Common Connected

Forward Lamp White

Reverse Lamp Yellow

Right Rail Pickup

Left Rail Pickup

Right Rail Pickup

Left Rail Pickup

Forward Lamp White

Reverse Lamp Yellow

Left Rail Pickup

Right Rail Pickup

LED Cathode End

LED Cathode End

Use to save space in installation.

Lamp brightness varies dependingon the direction of the analog locomotive.

Transponding can’t be enabled.

* *

- -+ +


3.10 Installing Lighting EffectsAdding lights to your locomotives can bring an added degree of realism but there are a few things to consider.

Headlight and Rear Light OperationAutomatic headlight reversing: All Digitrax decoders are shipped with auto-

matic reversing headlight operation as the default.Non-directional (independent) headlight operation: If you do not want auto-

matic reversing headlight operation use CV33 & CV34 to map F0Fwd and F0Rev to operate on two different throttle function keys.

FX3 light operation: Refer to the FX3 Section 9.0 which details how to program the many different FX3 effects.

Additional Lamp and Function Wiring ConsiderationsLamps with current draw over 50mA: For regular 12 to 16 volt lamps that

draw more than 50mA when lit, we recommend using a 22 to 33 ohm 1/4 watt resistor in series with the lamp leads to avoid the lamp “start-up cur-rents” overloading the outputs. These start-up currents can be up to 10 times the normal current draw.

Loco with only one lamp: If the locomotive has only one lamp, connect the F0Fwd (white) and F0Rev (yellow) outputs together. In this case the single light will be on if F0, the light function, is turned ON.

Connecting additional function outputs: Connect F1-F6 to the lamps or other items you want to control. Be sure not to exceed the total output current rat-ing of the function outputs for the decoder you are using.

Transponder equipped decoders: All Digitrax Series 3, 4, 5, & 6 decoders have built in resistors for transponding. Earlier versions of Digitrax decoders may need to have a load resistor installed for transponding to work. Please consult instructions for those specific decoders. You may see a slight glow even when the forward light is turned off, this is normal.

3.11 Installing Power XtendersDigitrax Power Xtenders are available for most Series 6 decoders. They are designed to keep locomotives running and sound from dropping out in situations where power to the locomotive is interrupted due to dirty, dead or bad track. Hold up time varies based on actual decoder load and track conditions.

Most Series 6 mobile decoders include either solder pads, a 2 pin socket or a sound harness replacement for adding a PX module to the decoder. Some very small Series 6 decoders cannot accommodate power xtenders because there is no room available on the board. No CV configuration is required to add a power xtender module and most are plug ‘n play installs. See www.digitrax.com for more information about Digitrax Power Xtenders

Note: Pre-series 6 decoders do not support the addition of power xtenders.


3.12 Final Decoder TestOnce the decoder is installed, you are ready for the test track. For decoders with FX3 functions, if you are able to control the loco’s lights but the motor will not run, this is also an indication of a motor short circuit that must be cor-rected.

1. Place your Digitrax decoder equipped locomotive on the programmingtrack and try to read or write to the decoder. If you get a program-ming error, check your wiring. This allows you to test the decoder in a low current environment to avoid damage due to incorrect wir-ing or installation.

2. Run your Digitrax decoder equipped locomotive on a regular DCtrack with the positive polarity connected to the right side wheels.The Digitrax decoder in the locomotive will recognize that it is not receiving DCC commands and automatically convert to analog mode, this is called analog mode conversion.

3. Using a DC power pack, move the loco in the forward direction. Ifthe loco moves in reverse, the input power feeds to the decoder arereversed. Power down, swap the decoder power input connections (red & black leads) and try again.

4. Next, run the decoder equipped loco with your Digitrax system.Follow the instructions in your Digitrax Starter Set manual toselect and run the locomotive on address 03. Operate any functions installed to be sure they can be turned on and off. Since you have not programmed the decoder yet, the decoder will use the factory default settings.

5. If any problems are observed, make corrections to your wiring and re-test.

3.13 Avoiding Heat Problems with InstallationsMost HO & N Scale locomotive motors, LEDs, and lamps are designed to operate on 12 volts DC on the track. Z Scale equipment is designed to run at 9 volts. Digitrax recommends running your command station and boosters at the lowest track voltage possible that provides acceptable operation.

The “N” (12V) setting on Digitrax command stations and boosters works well for most HO & N scale layouts. The “HO” setting should be used only for HO and larger scales. We recommend using a UP6Z Voltage Reducer for Z scale layouts to avoid applying too much track voltage to Z scale equipment.

If the track voltage applied exceeds the operating parameters of the locomotive and it’s LEDs/lamps, damage to the locomotive or decoder may occur.


4.0 General Decoder Troubleshooting

4.1 The decoder won’t respond

Make sure track power is ONIf the throttle is indicating that track power is off, turn track power on.

Can you control the functions but not the motor? If so, remove the loco from the track and check your installation for motor iso-lation or short circuit problems.

Can’t select the loco address on your throttle 1. If you see STEAL=Y? or stL? on your throttle display, the loco is

in use by another throttle. Release the loco from the other throttlebefore proceeding.

2. If you see consist or cn, the loco is part of a consist and can’t beselected individually. Remove the loco from the consist before con-tinuing

Check the value programmed into CV29If your decoder is a 14 step decoder running on a system that is sending 28/128 speed step commands, status editing is necessary to make the commands sent by the system match what the decoder can handle.

Have you reset any CVs since the last time you ran the loco? If so, go back and change them to their default values and then try to run the loco. It is possible to set acceleration so high that it will take 10 minutes for the loco to start moving.

Does your throttle say slot=max or FuLL?This means that the system’s capacity to handle operating locos is full. If you have the slot=max or FuLL message, be sure that all locos that are not running are released from throttles. Check your command station manual to determine how many locos your system can handle at a time.

During decoder programming, slot=max or FuLL message will be displayed if the loco you are trying to program has too many current loads attached. If this is the case, you need to remove some of the extra loads to program the decoder. This happens with locos that have many lamps installed or where the lamps are wired directly to the track pickups.

If all else fails, reprogram the decoder’s address and reset CVs to default values by setting CV08 to 08 to reset everything or to 09 to reset every-thing except loadable speed table and sound project selection entries.


4.2 The decoder runs for a while & then just stops

If a decoder is hot to the touch, it may be overheatingIt is normal for decoders to warm up while in use but they should not be hot to the touch. Be sure the decoder is installed so that it can shed heat. Don’t put decoders near the motor or lights.

Check for localized track problems Be sure you are not on a section of track that is not powered or does not have enough power. Use the Quarter trick described below to diagnose this condi-tion.

4.3 Loco operation is jerky & erraticIs the track clean and are the power feeds reliable? Are the locomotive wheel pickups and internal electrical connections reliable? The majority of intermittent operation faults can be traced to bad connections and poor or noisy wheel pickups on locomotives. Series 6 decoders can use a Power Xtender module to improve operation of both motor and sound in the presence of power interruptions.

4.4 “Strange” locomotive light operationIf you can’t control the operation of the lights in your locomotive with your throttle (in default 128, or 28 speed step mode), be sure that the decoder is programmed for advanced 28 speed step mode. Your Digitrax decoder was shipped programmed to 128 speed step mode. You may have changed your decoder’s programming when performing the decoder test procedure. In any case, if you are not able to turn the locomotives lights on and off, you will need to change CV29 to 006 or another appropriate value that sets the decoder to advanced 28/128 speed step mode.

If you can’t turn the lights on and off or the lights blink when you run the loco, make sure you are not running a standard (14 speed step operation) decoder trying to process 28 speed step Advanced packets. Be sure that the decoder and command station are using the same mode by programming CV29 to an appro-priate value or by changing the command station’s operating mode to match the decoder.

4.5 The locomotive won’t move at allDoes the locomotive have any mechanical binding problems? Is there any-thing inside the loco that is preventing the motor from turning? Are any wires shorting or touching moving parts?

When you are operating a Digitrax Command Station set up to run in 128 speed step mode, there are some decoders that only understand 14 speed step


mode. If you are using one of these non-Digitrax decoders, you will need to status edit the decoder so that it will run.

4.6 Locomotive “buzzes”Most noisy locomotive issues are caused by vibrations inside the loco’s mecha-nism. For DCC equipped locos, try lubricating the locomotive’s brushes and tuning up the loco’s mechanism.

Analog locos (without DCC decoders) make a “singing” sound when sitting still on DCC layouts. This noise, which is caused by the DCC track signal, decreases as the analog loco is accelerated. You can significantly reduce this noise by using conductive brush lubricants and by assuring that there is no vibration inside the loco that will add to the noise generated.

When operating analog locos on DCC layouts, DO NOT leave analog locos sit-ting still. It is best to park them off the live track unless they are running. This will prevent heat build up that can damage the loco, minimize the humming noise and lessen stress on the motors.

4.7 The Quarter TrickIf your track does not have adequate power supply to the locomotives, then the DCC signal won’t get through either. Use a coin or screwdriver blade and go around your layout creating electrical shorts every 10 feet. Your boosters should indicate a short by beeping (or in the display for Zephyr units) and shut down track power when the short is present. When the short is removed, the booster will return to normal operation. If this does not happen, then you need to add more feeders to make sure the track has enough power supply to oper-ate.

4.8 Are your LocoNet Cables built correctly?Check your LocoNet cables with the LT1 tester to be sure the cables are good. If your LocoNet cables are not working correctly, the signal won’t get through.

4.9 Getting HelpDon’t suffer in silence! There is no such thing as a “dumb question!” Our website, www.digitrax.com, and Tech Support Depot have the answers to many commonly asked questions. These are always available. If you can’t get it to work the way you think it should, let us know! Often your local Digitrax deal-er will be able to help you work out any problems you may encounter. If not, please contact Digitrax directly. Our support staff is available Monday through Friday 8AM to 5PM CDT to help you. E-mail [email protected]. We have found that e-mail is the most efficient way to handle tech support ques-tions. Often, we can send you written instructions to solve your issue. If that does not work, we will call you for further assistance.


5.0 Decoder Programming

5.1 What are Configuration Variables (CVs)?Each Configuration Variable, CV, controls one or more operating character-istics of the decoder based on the CV value that you program. All Digitrax decoders come with default settings from the factory that will run “out of the box.” Before you start programming your decoders, it’s a good idea to run your decoders with the default values that come pre-programmed from the fac-tory. This will let you get used to using DCC before you begin customizing. In many cases, you will find that you only need to change the address of the loco-motive to have great operation.

Once you are ready to customize, you can pick and choose from among the CVs and program each one independently. Once these CV values are pro-grammed, they are “remembered” in the decoder until you reprogram it with a new value. If you decide to use deceleration, in particular, keep the pro-grammed CV values small so that you have time to adapt to the delays in deceleration you have set up without crashing your valuable locomotives! See the Configuration Variables section below for complete information on how CVs are used by Digitrax decoders.

5.2 Service Mode and Ops Mode Programming MethodsDigitrax supports two programming methods:

Service Mode Programming is done on an electrically isolated programming track. In service mode, the command station broadcasts programming infor-mation to all decoders on the programming track. Direct, paged and physical register modes are used for service mode programming.

Operations Mode Programming, also called Ops Mode or programming on the main, is done on the layout by sending programming commands to a spe-cific locomotive address. To use this mode, you must have decoders that are capable of operations mode programming.

5.3 Programming ModesDigitrax Command Stations support direct, operations mode, paged, or physical register programming methods. This gives you maximum flexibility to program DCC decoders made by different manufacturers at different times in history.

Direct mode is the most commonly used programming method. Digitrax rec-ommends using direct mode for programming on the programming track.

Paged mode also gives access to all CVs for programming. Direct and paged programming appear very similar to the user.


Operations mode programming allows programming of decoders while the locomotive is on the mainline without having to use the programming track. The decoder address can be programmed with Ops mode programming with Digitrax DT300 & DT4xx series throttles. Some DCC systems allow operation mode programming only for CVs other than address.

Physical register mode is a very basic mode for programming decoders. With “register mode” you can program CVs 01, 02, 03, 04 & 29 only. This is only used with older decoders that require this method.

All of these programming modes may or may not be supported by your non-Digitrax command station or programmer. For the specifics and mechanics of programming with your system, please check your command station or pro-grammer manual.

5.4 DCC Outputs: Programming & Layout OperationThe DB150 Command Station/Booster, has one DCC output that is used both to run the trains and to program decoders. For this kind of command station, you will have to shutdown layout operations to program in service mode. The DCS100/DCS200 Command Station/Boosters and the DCS50/DCS51 Command Station/Booster/Throttle Combos have two DCC outputs. This means that you can program in service mode and read back decoders without having to shut down the layout. Both single and dual DCC output systems require a service mode programming track unless you are using operations mode programming on the main.

5.5 Reading & Writing CVsThe DB150 Command Station/Booster has a “write only programmer,” it will program CVs to the values you choose. DB150 will not read back CVs and their values programmed into your decoders.

The DCS100/DCS200 & DCS50/DCS51 Command Stations are “read/write programmers,” they can program decoders and read back their CVs and values. Another programming option is to use a PR3 Xtra programmer and your com-puter to program and read back decoders. Other DCC compatible programmers are able to program Digitrax decoders as well. Consult the manual for the sys-tem you are using for complete programming instructions.

Digitrax FX3 decoders have operations mode read back capabilities when used on layouts instrumented for this feature.

Note: Some DCC systems use a low power setting for all decoder program-ming. Digitrax recommends that you use low power programming for initial decoder tests prior to installation in the locomotive. We do not feel that it is


necessary to use a low power setting for decoder programming once you have successfully installed the decoder in the locomotive. If you are reprogramming an installed decoder, feel free to follow the steps presented here. If you wish to use a low power setting for decoder programming, please see the decoder ini-tial test procedures in Section 3.7 which detail the use of a protection resistor to provide a low power programming option.

6.0 CVs-Configuration Variables Configuration Variables or CVs are special storage locations or “pigeonholes” in the decoders. By programming CV values into CVs you can customize each decoder’s performance characteristics. These characteristics are permanently “remembered” by the decoder even when the power is off. CV values can be changed as often as you like. The meaning of most CVs is set by industry stan-dard. There are also some manufacturer specific CVs that are defined by each manufacturer to accommodate their own special features. Some legacy decod-ers do not use the same CVs that are currently in standard use.

At first glance, you will see that there are many different CVs. This may seem confusing but, don’t worry, Digitrax decoders are shipped with a set of pre-programmed factory default values that let you get up and running right away. As you begin to explore the possibilities with DCC, you will probably repro-gram CV01, the decoder’s 2 digit address. This lets you run more than one locomotive at a time. You may need to make changes to CV29, the “configura-tion” CV to make your lights operate correctly. Next you may decide to set up acceleration (CV03) and deceleration (CV04) or you may wish to set up your FX3 options using CVs 49 through 63 As you explore more of the capabilities of your decoder and system refer to TABLE III as a guide.

Digitrax decoders use many different configuration variables (CVs) to control the operating characteristics of the decoder. CV usage is fairly standardized from decoder to decoder but there may be differences in how CVs are used by different manufacturers.

To be absolutely sure about which CVs a particular decoder uses for a particu-lar feature, the range of values available and the factory default value please consult the specification sheet available on each decoder’s product page on www.digitrax.com. This will give you a complete list of CV uses for each individual decoder.

Sound projects are totally customizable and CVs may not be used consistently from project so project. Information on CVs used in sound decoders is includ-ed with each sound project.


Visit our online CV Calculator at www.digitrax.com/support/cv/ for help with determining the best CV Value to program into a CV.

Table III: CVs used in Digitrax DecodersCV# CV Usage/Notes Default

ValueValue Range

Basic Decoder Set Up CVsLocomotive Address CVs

01 2 Digit Decoder Address 03 001-1271718

4 Digit Address (High Byte & Low ByteCV17 & 18 are used together to program the 4 digit address. Current production Digitrax throttles handle this automatically. See online calculator if your system needs separate values to program the 4 digit address CVs separately.

00 0128-9983

29 Configuration Register Controls Multiple Features-must be set to a value that allows either 2 digit or 4 digit address.

06 See below

Configuration Register CV29 Configuration Register 06

Address Selection 2 or 4 digit 2 Digit TABLE IV

Normal direction of travel (NDOT) Fwd TABLE IV

Speed Step Control 28/128 TABLE IV

Use loadable 28 step speed table? Leave Off for three step speed table with V-start, V-mid, V-max.

Off TABLE IV

Analog mode conversion-change to DC opera-tion when on DCC present

On TABLE IV


CV# CV Usage/Notes Default Value

Value Range

LocoMotion CVs-Control locomotive motion characteristicsAcceleration and Deceleration03 Acceleration Rate-128 steps 00 00-3104 Deceleration Rate-128 steps 00 00-31Three Step Simple Speed Table & Start Voltage (Simple Throttle Response Curve)02 Start Voltage-128 Steps 00 00-25505 Maximum Voltage-128 Steps

00, 01 & 255=voltage at step 2800 00-255

06 Mid Point Voltage-128 steps00 & 01=Straight line curve

00 00-255

Loadable 28 Step Speed Tables with 256 Step Resolution (High Resolution Throttle Response Curve-128 speed step interpolated)65 Kick Start Value 0066 Forward Trim 0067 First Speed Table Entry 0068-93 28 Step Speed Table Entries 0094 Maximum Speed Table Step 0095 Reverse Trim 0029 Configuration Register-Must be set to a value

that enables speed tables. Speed Tables Are Dis-abled in the default settings

06 See CV29 above

Torque Compensation and Switching Speed54 Val-

ueSwitching Speed

Torque Compensa-tion

Decoder Lock

00 Off On Enabled01 On On Enabled16 Off Off Enabled17 On Off Enabled64 Off On Disabled65 On On Disabled80 Off Off Disabled81 On Off Disabled

00 00, 01, 16, 17, 64, 65, 80, 81



Value Range

Scaleable Speed Stabilization (Back EMF)55 Static compensation 128 00-25556 Dynamic compensation 080 00-25557 Amount of Back EMF (Intensity)

See Scaleable Speed Stabilization Section for Range

06 See CV57 section

Advanced Consist Address19 Advanced consist address-default is off 00 00-255Transponding and LED/Lamp Selector61 CV

ValueTransponding LED or Lamp

00 Off LED01 Off Lamp02 On LED03 On Lamp

00 00-03

SuperSonic (Quiet Operation)09 Motor Frequency-Default is Max 00 00-255Function CVs for controlling lights, etc.49 F0F, Forward light effect (white) 00 TABLE50 F0R, Reverse light effect (yellow) 00 TABLE51 F1, Function 1 (green) 00 TABLE52 F2, Function 2 (violet) 00 TABLE113 F3, Function 3 (brown) 00 TABLE114 F4, Function 4 (white w/yellow stripe) 00 TABLE115 F5, Function 5 (white w/green stripe) 00 TABLE116 F6, Function 6 ( white w/blue stripe) 00 TABLE62 FX Rate and Keep Alive Adjustment 00 00-25563 Ditch Light Blink Hold Time 00 00-255Function Mapping CVs set up throttle key for each function output33-46 Function mapping CVs 00 TABLE

XVIIIAdvanced Consist Function Control21 Advanced consist function control override for

F1-F800



Value Range

22 Advanced Consist function control override for F0 & F9-F12

00

Decoder Utility CVsDecoder Reset08 Reset decoder to factory default CVs

Value Action08 Reset all to factory default09 Reset to factory default except

speed tables and selected sound scheme.

129

Decoder Lock15 Selects the target decoder for programming

commands0=Decoder Lock Off1-7=Unique decoder IDs

0 0-7

16 Sets the ID number of each decoder installed in a locomotive 0=Decoder Lock Off1-7=Unique decoder IDs

0 0-7

Decoder IDs105 User private ID #1 00106 User private ID #2 0007 Version ID-Read Only 6408 Manufacturer ID-Digitrax 129

7.0 Basic Decoder Setup CVsThe decoder’s address and the configuration register CVs are the basic CVs needed to operate a decoder.

7.1 Decoder AddressesThe decoder’s address is the unique identification number that lets that decoder recognize commands sent to it by the command station. Once you program the decoder’s address, it is remembered by the decoder until it is changed.

Decoders can be programmed with both 2 digit and 4 digit addresses but only one or the other will be in use at any time. Whether the 2 or 4 digit address is used is determined by CV29, the configuration register.


You can change the decoder address by reprogramming it at any time so, you can set up any numbering scheme you choose for your locos. Many people assign the last two numbers of the loco’s road number as the 2 digit decoder or 4 digits of the road number as the 4 digit address.

More than one loco can be programmed to the same address. This is useful if you want to set up a basic consist and run more than one loco on a single address.

Digital Address Ranges for Mobile Decoders

Address “00” is used for analog operation of a locomotive without a decoder on the same track as DCC equipped locos.

Addresses from 001 to 127 are the two digit address range. Two digit decoder addresses are set up by programming CV01 & CV29.

Addresses from 0128 to 9983 are the four digit address range. Four digit decoder addresses are set up by programming CV17, CV18 & CV29.

There is no “three digit address.” If your loco only has a three digit road number, you can use 0-127 as a 2 digit address or use a 4 digit address with a leading 0.

7.1.1 Decoder 2 Digit Address: CV01On your DT300 & DT4xx throttles, the display will show Ad2 for two digit addresses and Ad4 for four digit addresses. All other CVs are displayed as numbers on Digitrax throttles. Be sure that CV29 is programmed to a value that enables 2 digit operation.

See CV29 below for more information.

7.1.2 Decoder 4 Digit Address: CV17 & CV18The 4 digit address is sometimes called the long address. It is programmed in CV17 & CV18. Simply programming CV17 & CV18 will not enable 4 digit addressing. The DCS50, DCS51, DB150, DCS100 & DCS200 Command Stations that come with Zephyr Series, Super Empire Builder Series and Super Chief Series Sets provide automated programming that makes this process simple. See the starter set manuals for step by step instructions for setting up and enabling 4 digit addresses in your decoders.


7.2 Configuration Register: CV29

7.2.1 Characteristics Controlled by CV29

Configuration Variable 29 (CV29 for short) is a very special CV. The value entered for this CV controls several things:

1. 2 digit addressing or 4 digit addressing (as described above)2. Normal Direction of Travel (NDOT)3. Speed step control: Advanced Mode (28/128 speed steps) or Standard

Mode (14 speed steps)4. Analog mode conversion On or Off5. Speed table On or Off

The Normal Direction of Travel, or NDOT for short, lets you set up your locos to run either long hood forward or short hood forward. The decoder determines which way the loco will move independent of track polarity, you can set up either direction as forward depending on the prototype.

There are two modes for speed step control: Standard or 14 speed step mode and Advanced or 28/128 speed step control.

Because of differences in the capabilities of DCC compatible command sta-tions and decoders, you may have to set CV29 in your decoders to different values to match the mode of the command station you are using. If your com-mand station sends standard 14 speed step mode commands, your decod-ers must be programmed for standard mode. If your command station sends advanced 28/128 speed step commands, your decoders must be programmed for advanced mode. All Digitrax decoders are 128 speed step capable and we recommend that for best performance you run them in 128 speed step mode. If you are using non-Digitrax decoders that do not support advanced mode and you want to run your command station in advanced mode, you can “status edit” the standard decoders so that they can be run with your command station. See your starter set manual for the specifics of status editing.

Loadable speed tables can be enabled or disabled with CV29. Speed tables are used to customize the throttle response curve of each decoder equipped loco-motive. The speed table values can be stored in the decoder and then the table can be turned on or off with CV29. See the section on CVs 65-93 below for a complete description of how speed tables work.


The analog mode conversion feature is very convenient if you plan to run your Digitrax decoded locomotive on regular DC layouts. With analog mode conversion enabled, the decoder will automatically begin operating as a DC locomotive when no DCC signal is detected by the decoder. This means that if you place your Digitrax decoder equipped loco, with analog mode conversion enabled, on a regular DC layout, it will run on the DC layout. Disabling ana-log mode conversion can be useful too as the following example illustrates:

Brake Generator Example:

If you disable the analog mode conversion feature in a decoder, when DC power is present the locomotive will stop. This gives you a very inexpensive way of generating a “brake section” for stopping DCC locomotives in front of red signals.

By disabling analog mode conversion in the decoder, a relay can supply DC voltage to a track section in front of a red signal to slow and stop a locomo-tive in the brake section. When the signal turns green, the relay can restore the DCC track signal, and the locomotive will restart. The decoder will slow to a stop and restart at its programmed deceleration and acceleration values. In addition, if you are using a decoder with FX3 functions, the locomotive’s lights and functions will remain active when stopped on the DC brake section as long as DC power is supplied to the track while the loco is stopped.

You can use your DCS100’s second DCC output to set up a braking section. See our website www.digitrax.com Tech Support Depot for instructions for set-ting up a braking section with DCS100.

7.2.2 Determining CV Value To Program Into CV29The value you program into CV29 will affect many important decoder charac-teristics. Each of these characteristics is controlled by a “software switch.” This switch is either on or off depending on the CV value programmed. There are three ways to determine the value to program into CV29. The easiest way to determine this value is to use our on-line CV calculator at www.digitrax.com/support/cv/. TABLE IV details the CV value for each com-bination of features.

Our on-line CV Calculator and the Digitrax Tool Box App for mobile devices make this calculation easy, too.


TABLE IV: CV29 Value TableCVValues

2 or 4 Digit Address

Normal Direction of Travel

Speed Steps/Loadable Speed Table

Analog Mode Con-version

000 2 Forward 14 OFF001 2 Reverse 14 OFF002 2 Forward 28/128 OFF003 2 Reverse 28/128 OFF004 2 Forward 14 ON005 2 Reverse 14 ON*006 2 Forward 28/128 ON*007 2 Reverse 28/128 ON016 2 Forward 14 Speed Tables OFF017 2 Reverse 14 Speed Tables OFF018 2 Forward 28/128 Speed Table OFF019 2 Reverse 28/128 Speed Table OFF020 2 Forward 14 Speed Tables ON021 2 Reverse 14 Speed Tables ON022 2 Forward 28/128 Speed Table ON023 2 Reverse 28/128 Speed Table ON032 4 Forward 14 OFF033 4 Reverse 14 OFF034 4 Forward 28/128 OFF035 4 Reverse 28/128 OFF036 4 Forward 14 ON037 4 Reverse 14 ON*038 4 Forward 28/128 ON*039 4 Reverse 28/128 ON048 4 Forward 14 Speed Tables OFF049 4 Reverse 14 Speed Tables OFF050 4 Forward 28/128 Speed Table OFF051 4 Reverse 28/128 Speed Table OFF052 4 Forward 14 Speed Tables ON053 4 Reverse 14 Speed Tables ON054 4 Forward 28/128 Speed Table ON055 4 Reverse 28/128 Speed Table ON

*The most often used values for CV29 are 06 (the default), 07, 38 & 39.


Most common values for CV29:

All Digitrax decoders are shipped with a factory default value of 006 in CV29. This gives the following characteristics to the decoder: 2 digit address, normal direction of travel is forward, 28/128 speed step operation, analog mode con-version ON, loadable speed table OFF.

Programming 007 in CV29 gives the following characteristics to the decoder: 2 digit address, normal direction of travel is reverse, 28/128 speed step operation, analog mode conversion ON, loadable speed table OFF.

Another commonly used value is 038 in CV29. This sets the decoder to use a 4 digit address, normal direction of travel is forward, 28/128 speed step opera-tion, analog mode conversion ON, loadable speed table OFF.

A value of 039 programmed into CV29 will set the decoder to use a 4 digit address, has a normal direction of travel in reverse, operates in advanced 28/128 speed step mode, has analog mode conversion enabled, does not use a speed table.


8.0 LocoMotion CVs

8.1 Acceleration and Deceleration Rates Acceleration and Deceleration rates are used to simulate operating a real train with your throttle.

8.1.1 Acceleration Rate: CV03Acceleration is the rate at which the decoder increases from one speed step to the next in response to a new command to increase speed. CV03, acceleration, lets you simulate train weight or inertia. The range of values for acceleration is 000 to 031. Setting CV03 to a value of 00 generates an immediate response to a new command to increase speed. As you increase the CV value programmed into CV03, the rate of speed step change is approximately 1/10 second per increment in acceleration value.

For example, a value of 01 programmed to CV03 will cause the decoder to change at 1/10 second per speed step (using the 28 speed step range). This means that it would take approximately 2.8 seconds for the loco to go from stopped to full speed if you command the loco to go immediately to full speed.

8.1.2 Deceleration Rate: CV04Deceleration is the rate at which the decoder decreases from one speed step to the next in response to a new command to decrease speed. CV04, deceleration, lets you simulate locomotive braking action. The range of values for CV04, deceleration, is 000 to 031. A value of 00 causes an immediate response to a new command to decrease speed. As you increase the CV value programmed into CV04, the rate of speed step change is approximately 1/10 second per increment in deceleration value.

For example a value of 01 programmed to CV04 causes the decoder to change at 1/10 second per speed step (using the 28 speed step range). This means that it would take 2.8 seconds to decelerate from full speed to stop if you com-manded the loco to go immediately to stop when it was moving at full speed.


8.2 Throttle Response Curves & Loadable Speed Tables

0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28

25%

50%

75%

100%

Motor�Voltage�Applied

Speed Steps

THROTTLE RESPONSE CURVE

Defau

lt Curv

e

V-start, V-m

id, V-m

ax 3 Step Table Curve

28 Step Loadable �Speed Table Curve

When using a throttle to control a locomotive, you will notice that as you increase and decrease the speed, the loco responds to the change in throttle settings according to the relationship between motor voltage applied and the throttle setting. This is called the throttle response curve. Decoders are shipped from the factory with a linear throttle response curve. This means that as you increase the throttle setting from 0 to full speed, the loco will look like the default curve in this diagram.

If you want to create a more realistic throttle response curve, you can set up either a simple three step speed table or a loadable speed table.

The simple speed table involves setting three CV values. The loadable speed table is a bit more involved with more precise results. Loadable speed tables define the percentage of motor voltage applied at each of 28 digital speed steps. By programming a value for each of the 28 steps, you can set up a customized throttle response curve for each individual decoder equipped locomotive. The shape of this curve defines the “feel” of the decoder’s throttle response.

With Digitrax FX3 decoders, when the loadable speed table is active and 128 speed step information is received from the command station, the table is inter-polated to generate 4 in-between steps to give full 128 step resolution.

You can use the 3 step method for some locos and the 28 step method for other locos on your layout, you do not have to choose only one method or the other.


8.2.1 Simple 3 Step Speed Table Start voltage, Max Voltage and Mid-point voltage can be used to set up a simple three step speed table. In most cases, a simple 3 step speed table is the easiest way to set up the throttle response curve you want. For higher resolu-tion in your throttle response curve, you can use a loadable speed table.

You can set up a simple 3 step throttle response curve by setting V-start (CV02), V-mid (CV06) and V-max (CV05). This method requires program-ming just 3 CVs. Once these three CVs are set, you are ready to run the loco, no programming of CV29 is needed for this type of speed table.

8.2.2 V-Start: CV02Start voltage, V-start, is the extra voltage added to the motor drive voltage at the first speed step. This adjustment allows you to compensate for the locomo-tive motor’s efficiency. The range you can program for this CV value is from 000 to 255. Each value increment represents an increase of approximately 1/2% of the total motor drive voltage, when a “straight-line” throttle response curve is used. The value of 255 represents 100% motor voltage. Digitrax Series 3, 4, 5 & 6 decoders use V-start in 128 speed step mode and run loadable speed tables in 128 speed step mode. Most earlier version Digitrax decoders disregard V-start in 128 speed step mode and run loadable speed tables in 14 or 28 speedstep mode.

8.2.3 V-Max: CV05Setting CV05, V-max or maximum voltage, specifies an exact voltage that is applied to the motor at the highest speed step Setting V-max to a lower value than 255 allows you to limit the top speed of a locomotive. The range of avail-able V-max CV values is 000 to 255. A value of 128 applies 50% of total volt-age to the motor at the highest speed step. A value of 255 applies 100% voltage at the highest speed step.

For backward compatibility, CV05 values of 000, 001 & 255 all mean 100% voltage at step 28. If V-Max is accidentally set below V-mid, the decoder will use the V-mid setting as V-max.

V-max is not available when loadable speed tables are in use. In this case, setthe maximum voltage by programming speed step 28 as the max voltage.

8.2.4 V-Mid: CV06Setting CV06, V-mid or mid point voltage specifies an exact voltage that is applied to the motor at speed step 15 (or speed step 7 in a 14 step system). The range of available V-mid CV values is from 000 to 255. A value of 128 applies 50% of the total voltage to the motor at step 15 (28 step system). A value of 255 applies 100% voltage at the middle speed step.


If V-start (CV02) is accidentally programmed to a CV value greater than that programmed for V-mid (CV06), the decoder will force the output voltage for all steps below the V-mid value to be fixed at the V-mid value. This is done to prevent undesirable operational effects.

If a value of 00 or 01 is programmed into CV06 (V-mid), the decoder assumes a “straight-line” throttle response curve. In this case, the decoder will run as though V-mid were set at a value of 50% of total motor voltage.

V-mid is not available when loadable speed tables are in use.

8.2.5 Simple 3 Step Speed Table ExamplesThe following are examples of 3 step speed tables you might want to try. Keep in mind that these are average examples for average locos that are not using torque compensation or scaleable speed stabilization (Back EMF). Depending on your particular locomotive, you may need to adjust the values to achieve the results you want.

TABLE V: 3 Step Throttle Response Curve Examples

Throttle Response Curve Type V-startCV02

V-midCV06

V-maxCV05

SwitcherConcentrated low speed control. Limited top speed.

026 038 064

Road SwitcherPrototypical top speed with evenly distributed speed control over range of throttle operation.

026 048 098

Mainline LocomotiveQuick increase to cruising speed then levels off to prototypical top speed.

026 128 154

8.3 High Res 28 Step Loadable Speed Tables CV65-95For a more precise throttle response curve, Digitrax decoders also have avail-able a 28 step loadable speed table option. With this method, you must program values for up to 32 different CVs as detailed below. This can be time consum-ing but you only have to do it once, since the settings will be remembered by the decoder until you change them. If you have programmed a loadable speed table into a decoder, you can preserve that speed table when performing a decoder reset with CV08 by programming CV08 to a value of 09. If you do a full reset by programming CV08 to 08, the loadable speed table will be reset to the factory default with no values programmed.


When speed table is enabled and 128 speed step information is received from the command station, the table is interpolated to generate 4 in-between steps to give full 128 step resolution.

28 Step Speed Table Programming Example1. Program CVs 65 through 95 and CV29 with CV values from

TABLE VI.2. After programming the table values, program CV29 to the value of 16

to enable the loadable speed table. If you want to disable the load-able speed table later, just program CV29 to 06 and you will return to 128 speed step operation (the speed table is still remembered and can be re activated by programming CV29 to 16 again later). Setting CV29 to the value of 16 will enable the 28/128 step speed table, enable analog mode conversion, set the normal direction of travel of the loco and enable 2 digit addressing. This CV value is just one of many choices to enable the loadable speed table and control the other variables handled by CV29 at the same time. Consult CV29 TABLE IV above for complete information about what value to pro-gram into CV29 to get the features you want.

3. Once the speed table is programmed, you can scale the entire speedcurve by using the forward trim value (CV66) and reverse trim value(CV95). These CVs act like a “volume control.” When you use these trim values, you don’t have to reload the entire 28 step table if you want to change, for example, the maximum forward speed from 45 scale mph to 80 scale mph. Changing the forward or reverse trim values will scale all the values used in the table, in the correspond-ing direction, by the value programmed into the CV. Using different forward and reverse trim values allows for many different combina-tions. The trim values can increase the table values from 100% up to 200% or decrease them from 100% down to 2%.

When speed matching locos, get the first loco running the way you like and then match subsequent locos to it. We strongly recommend that you keep a running list of the CVs and CV values you have programmed for each decoder.

When CV29 is set to enable a loadable speed table, any V-max(CV05) or V-mid(CV06) values programmed are not used by the decoder when it deter-mines how much motor voltage to apply. Non FX decoders don’t use V-start(CV02) when a loadable speed table is enabled. Non-FX decoders don’t runloadable speed tables in 128 speed step mode. To run non-FX decoders with aloadable speed table, you must run them in 14 or 28 speed step mode. Set theirCV29 value to 016, 017, 020, 021, 048, 049, 052 or 053 and status edit thesedecoders to a value of 10, 20, 12, or 22. FX decoders have start voltage and128 speed step table operation available.


TABLE VI: Example Loadable Speed Table Used For CV# CV ValueKick Start CV65 001Forward Trim CV66 128Step 4 Value CV67 010Step 5 Value CV68 014Step 6 Value CV69 018Step 7 Value CV70 022Step 8 Value CV71 024Step 8 Value CV72 028Step 9 Value CV73 032Step 10 Value CV74 036Step 11 Value CV75 040Step 12 Value CV76 044Step 13 Value CV77 050Step 14 Value CV78 054Step 15 Value CV79 060Step 16 Value CV80 064Step 18 Value CV81 070Step 19 Value CV82 076Step 20 Value CV83 082Step 21 Value CV84 090Step 22 Value CV85 096Step 23 Value CV86 106Step 24 Value CV87 114Step 25 Value CV88 126Step 26 Value CV89 136Step 27 Value CV90 148Step 28 Value CV91 162Step 29 Value CV92 178Step 30 Value CV93 198Step 31 Value CV94 218Reverse Trim CV95 128Configuration Register

CV29 022


Notes for TABLE VI:1. The Kick Start CV provides for a short voltage “kick” when you start

the locomotive decoder from 0 speed. A value of 00 turns this optionOFF.

2. If you program Forward Trim (CV66) & Reverse Trim (CV95) to CVvalues of 128, 000, or 001 you will get no scaling effect. A trimvalue of 255 will give 200% scaling of the table entry value.

3. A final scaled table value of 255 represents 100% applied motor volt-age or Full speed. A value of 128 represents 50% applied motorvoltage, i.e., the actual table step entry is multiplied by the appropri-ate Trim value to yield the final scaled table value that defines the voltage to apply to the motor.

4. The steps defined in the table are for the 28 speed step mode. Step 4is the first motion step in the 28 speed step system. Step 31 is the“full throttle” speed step. When setting up the decoder to run 14 step mode, only every second entry in the table is used. When 14 speed steps are used by the command station, the decoder will automati-cally use the correct CVs and their CV values from the speed table.

5. The suggested CV values given in the example speed table will give athrottle response curve that most US users will find useful. Once youhave loaded the example table, feel free to modify the CV values to suit your own preferences.

8.4 CV54 Torque Compensation, Switching Speed & Decoder Lock DisableTorque Compensation can improve loco performance by adjusting for the loss of torque due to high frequency pulse width modulation, PWM, associated with SuperSonic (silent) operation.

In FX3 decoders, CV54 is used to control the decoder’s torque compensation, switching speed and decoder lock enabled features.

Switching speed gives you fast access to lower speeds used in switching opera-tions. This feature effectively reduces the throttle’s target speed by approxi-mately 50% and reduces the effects of accel and decel programmed into the decoder by 1/4 when the user activates this mode by turning on F6.

The decoder lock feature allows you to program CV values in individual decoders when there is more than one decoder installed in a locomotive. This is useful when sound only decoders have been added to a regular mobile decoder installation.


TABLE VII: CV54 ValuesCV54 Values

Switching Speed

Torque Com-pensation

Decoder Lock

00 Off On Enabled01 On On Enabled16 Off Off Enabled17 On Off Enabled64 Off On Disabled65 On On Disabled80 Off Off Disabled81 On Off Disabled

8.5 Scaleable Speed Stabilization (Back EMF)Digitrax decoders are equipped with scaleable speed stabilization (adjustable Back EMF). This LocoMotion feature can help smooth out operation in the low end speed range. It allows you to run locomotives at the same speed no matter the track grade. It can also help improve operation of steam locomo-tives. Digitrax decoders offer the ability to adjust the amount of speed stabili-zation used by a decoder. Digitrax FX3 decoders are shipped with default speed stabilization values that improve the operation of most locomotives.

TABLE VIII: Scaleable Speed Stabilization-Adjustable Back EMF CVs Scaleable Speed Stabilization (Back EMF)CV# Purpose Default

ValueRange

55 Static compensation 128 00-25556 Dynamic compensation 80 00-25557 Amount of speed stabilization (Intensity) 06 00-15

CV55 controls the static compensation or how much the decoder considers the difference between the current motor and locomotive speed and the target speed set on the throttle when determining the next speed command to send to the motor. This is like the stiffness of a spring. The stiffer the spring, the more compensation you will get. CV55 values can range from 000-255. Higher val-ues give a more intense reaction and lower values give less intense reactions. The factory default setting for CV55 is 128. It will have no effect on decoder operation until you program CV57 as described below.


CV56 controls the dynamic compensation or how much the decoder consid-ers the historical difference between the current speed and the target speed when determining the next speed command to send to the motor. This set-ting is like a damper or shock absorber on the spring that helps to restore the spring to its new position. CV values can range from 000 to 255. Higher values cause more rapid adaptation to the target speed and lower values cause slower adaptation to the target speed. The factory default setting for CV56 is 048. It will have no effect on decoder operation until you program CV57 as described below. Excessively high CV values programmed to CV56 will tend to let the locomotive “hunt” around a new desired speed when a change of speed is com-manded. We recommend that you use the lowest CV value in CV56 that gives the desired performance.

CV57 controls the amount of back EMF (intensity) or speed loss as load is increased, by limiting the amount of change or compensation that the decoder is allowed to implement. CV57 controls the back EMF separately for regular addresses and advanced consist addresses.

Table VIIIa: CV57 Values To control the amount of Back EMFAmount of Back EMF (ap-proximate)

Value to add single unit Value to add for advanced consists

Off 00 007% 1 1614% 2 3220% 3 4827% 4 6433% 5 8040% 6 9647% 7 11253% 8 12860% 9 14467% 10 16073% 11 17680% 12 19287% 13 20893% 14 224100% 15 240

If either digit is 00, speed stabilization is OFF. A value of 015 is speed stabili-


zation FULL ON. If the amount of back EMF intensity CV value is too high, you may see locos jump from one speed to the next if they encounter an obsta-cle or problem with track work. If the value is too low, there will be very little speed stabilization effect at all. A higher value makes the intensity or speed fall-off less. A typical value for most locomotives not part of an advanced con-sist is CV57=005, but the actual value that is best for a locomotive and train length must be determined by observation and experimentation. Note that this value of 005 for this example means that no speed compensation is used when this decoder is in an Advanced Consist.

When you are using Scaleable Speed Stabilization (Back EMF), you don’t need to program a large CV value for V-start (CV02) to compensate for sluggish motors. This is because when scaleable speed stabilization is used, the decoder will automatically adjust the motor power up to at least the V-start setting, to achieve the actual speed commanded. This means that low speeds like 3% or 4% of full speed will perform best when CV02 is programmed to 000.

How to set up a loco with Scaleable Speed Stabilization (Back EMF)1. Install the decoder.2. Program CV57 (Amount of Back EMF) to a CV value of 005 This

will turn on speed stabilization.3. Put the loco on level track and run it at approximately 20% of full

speed. Beginning with the default value of 128 in CV55 (Static),reprogram the CV value to increasingly higher values until you observe the loco jumping as speed steps increase when you run the locomotive. Finish this step by reprogramming CV55 to the CV value just before the jumping started. Ops Mode programming on the main line works very well here.

4. Follow the same procedure with CV56, beginning with the defaultvalue of 048 and increasing it until you notice the loco oscillating, asspeed is increased. Finish this step by programming CV56 to the CV value just before the oscillation started.

5. Follow the same procedure with CV57, beginning with the value 05as programmed in step 1. Increase the CV value in this CV until thespeed when going up hill is roughly equivalent to the speed on level track. This will yield a best Back EMF intensity consistent with the locomotive’s characteristics.

6. Keep notes about the CV values you program for these 3 scaleablespeed stabilization control CVs so that you can use them as a start-ing point for setting up scaleable speed stabilization in similar loco-motives.


8.6 Advanced Consist Address CV19CV19 is the advanced consist address. When this CV is in use for an advanced consist, the functions within the advanced consist are individually controlled at their individual locomotive addresses. CV21 & 22 are used to control func-tions in advanced consists, see Section 9.10.

8.7 CV61 Transponding & LED/Lamp Algorithm SelectorDigitrax FX3 Decoders use CV61 (one of the manufacturer specific configura-tion variables) for enabling or disabling transponding and for selecting whether the decoder will use the LED or incandescent lamp lighting algorithm.

8.7.1 Transponding Feed Back From DecodersTransponding feeds back the transponding zone location of any specific loco-motive or other rolling stock equipped with a transponder. Location and iden-tification information are updated constantly on LocoNet and can be displayed on a track diagram, throttle, or computer. Transponding decoders and transpon-ders work in conjunction with transponding receivers installed on the layout.

Digitrax transponding does not require any additional modifications or induc-tors to be added to your locos, rolling stock or system boosters.

All current production Digitrax decoders incorporate patented transponding technology. Decoders are shipped with transponding disabled because layout hardware must be installed to use this feature.

If your decoder does not have an integrated transponder, you can add a TL1 or TF4 to your installation to add transponding. Transponders can also be added to rolling stock that does not have a decoder. Transponding devices can be added to DCC equipped locos as well as non-DCC equipped locos and rolling stock. You can install transponding devices in locos with decoders made by other companies to get the benefits of transponding. If you are using “silent-running” decoders made by other DCC companies on your layout be sure that they are Digitrax transponding compatible. If they are not, simply disable this feature in those decoders to prevent interference with transponding.

Digitrax transponder current pulse generation uses the F0 decoder function out-put that is also used for the forward light function. Transponding will not affect the operation of the forward light but you may see a slight glow when the light is turned off.

To set up your layout for transponding:1. Install transponding layout hardware on the layout according to

instructions.2. All Digitrax Series 3, 4, 5, & 6 decoders have built in resistors for


transponding. Earlier versions of Digitrax decoders may need to have a load resistor installed for transponding to work. Please con-sult instructions for those specific decoders.

3. In some situations it may be beneficial to add a resistor between theblue and white leads to improve transponding effectiveness. If youare running zones where the average current draw is more than 3 amps, you may need to connect an additional 100 ohm 1/8 watt resistor in series with a 0.1uF ceramic capacitor across the white and blue decoder outputs.

4. Enable transponding by programming CV61 to a value of 02 or 03.5. Place the loco on the track set up for transponding, select it and run it

back & forth. Verify that transponding is working. If transponding isnot working, be certain that the resistor described above is installed properly between the white and blue outputs of the decoder.

6. Pick up the loco and turn it around on the track, select it and run itback and forth again. Verify that transponding is working in that ori-entation as well. If transponding is not working, be certain that the resistor described above is installed properly between the white and blue outputs of the decoder.

NOTE: Locos must be selected in the system for transponding to work.

8.7.2 LED/Lamp Algorithm SelectorBeginning with Series 6 decoders, Digitrax FX effects are optimized for either LEDs or incandescent lamps. Since these two types of lighting devices have different characteristics, Digitrax has set up two selectable algorithms for operating the devices. Some users like lamps better than LEDs and vice versa. Many new production locomotives have been produced with LEDs. You have the option to use either.

8.7.3 CV61 Values: Transponding & Lighting AlgorithmYou can set up whether transponding is enabled or disabled and which light-ing algorithm you use in CV61 as shown in the following table. The factory default is 00, transponding off and LED algorithm selected.

TABLE IX: CV61 Values Transponding and Lighting AlgorithmCV 61Value

Transponding LED or Lamp

00 Off LED01 Off Lamp02 On LED03 On Lamp


8.8 CV09 SuperSonic (Quiet Operation) SuperSonic motor drive sets up transponding compatible silent operation by adjusting the motor frequency. In this case, 00 is max (16KHz) and 225 is minimum. Note: If you are using decoders made by other manufacturers on a transponding equipped layout, you may need to turn off this feature in those decoders for transponding to work properly.

9.0 Function CVsFunction CVs control how the function leads on your decoder work.

9.1 Digitrax Light Effects: CV49-CV52 & CV113-CV116Decoders with FX3 features have 8 user configurable, independent special effects generators. These are set up by programming CV values as described below. If you do not program the FX3 CVs to set up the features, your func-tion outputs will run as standard on/off function outputs.

Standard functions turn functions on and off.

FX3 functions incorporate up to 8 independently controllable FX3 gener-ators. FX3 function outputs can be mapped to be controlled by any function key on your throttle. A master light switch can be set up to turn off all lights on a locomotive. Functions associated with loco-motives in advanced consists can also be controlled independently.

9.2 Setting Up FX3 Effects On Function Outputs1. Each function output has an FX3 control CV associated with it. Using

TABLE X below, determine which CV you need to program to setup an FX3 feature for the function output you are working with. Forexample, if you want to set up an FX3 feature on your forward head-light, you will use CV49 to control the FX3 feature for the LED/lamp attached to the F0F decoder output.

TABLE X: FX3 Generator CVsFX3 CV# Function # Output ColorCV49 F0/Light Forward (F0F) WhiteCV50 F0/Light Reverse (F0R) YellowCV51 F1 Function 1 GreenCV52 F2 Function 2 VioletCV113 F3 Function 3 BrownCV114 F4 Function 4 White/YellowCV115 F5 Function 5 White/GreenCV116 F6 Function 6 White/Blue


Note: Some decoders do not have function output wires attached. See the specific decoder instructions to determine which function output “pad” on the decoder controls each function. Use thin wire to solder function output wires to the pads associated with the function you want to use.

2. Each FX3 effect has a CV value that generates the effect you want ona particular output. That CV Value also controls the FX3 effect’soperating characteristics with respect to locomotive direction and the head light (F0) function. Because of all the built in flexibility offered by FX3, it may seem confusing at first. So, wiring and CV program-ming combinations for the most commonly used FX3 effects are included in the next section. We recommend that you try these first.

Then if you want to do more customization to your specific installation you can use our online CV calculator at www.digitrax.com/support/cv to compute the CV values for your specific situation.

Or, use TABLE XI & XII to determine the CV value to program for each individual output lead. Choose a value from the FX3 Effect Table and a value from the FX3 Operational Characteristics Table. Add these two numbers together to determine the CV value to program into the CV associated with the output you are using to achieve the effect and operational characteristics you want.

3. Program the FX3 CV value you have selected to the FX3 CV that cor-responds with the function output you are using.

4. For FX3 decoders, you can repeat steps 1, 2 and 3 to set up as manyas 8 FX3 effects on any function outputs available on the decoderyou are using. For example 6 function FX3 decoders support only 6 FX3 generators.

9.3 Commonly Used FX3 Effects On Function OutputsTo help you get up and running quickly with FX3 we have included examples of the most often used combinations in this section. Each of these examples shows how to use these effects on specific function outputs. Note that if you are using the effects on different function outputs, you will need to use the appropriate CV# to control the function output in use.

If you want to go further and do additional customization, please read on to the following sections to dig deeper and learn more.


9.3.1 Simple On/Off Function All FX3 decoders are set up as simple ON/OFF functions at the factory. That means that each FX3 Generator CV (49-52 & 113-116) is programmed to a value of 00. If you have changed the CV values, you can always reprogram them back to 00. If you do a decoder reset by programming CV08 to 08 or 09, the FX3 Generator CVs will return to their factory defaults of 00.

9.3.2 Forward Ditch Lights Operating on F2To set up forward ditch lights to flash alternately when F0 is ON & F2 is

pressed:1. Wire left (conductor’s side) lamp or LED to F1 and Blue Common2. Wire right (engineer’s side) lamp or LED to F2 and Blue Common3. Program CVs as shown below:

FX3 CV# CV ValueCV51 106CV52 107CV62 196CV63 64


Right Ditch Light (12V Bulb)

Head Light(12V Bulb)

Left Ditch Light (12V Bulb)

Rear Light(12V bulb)

Right Rail (Engineer's Side)

Left Rail (Fireman's Side)

Motor -Motor +

Red

Yellow White

Orange Gray

Forward light (F0 FWD)Reverse light (F0 REV)

Function 1 (F1)

Right Side(Engineer's)

Power Pickup

Left Side(Fireman's)

Power Pick-up

DC Motor(Brushesisolated)

Black

DigitraxDecoder

Function 2 (F2)

Lamp Common

Violet

Blue

Setting Up Ditch Lights

with FX3 Decoders

R

Filament lampsare recommendedfor ditch lights.LEDs can’t simulatethe keep alive as well.

9.3.3 Rear Ditch Lights Operating on F3 & F4 To set up rear ditch lights:1. Wire left (conductor’s side) lamp or LED to F3 and Blue Common2. Wire right (engineer’s side) lamp or LED to F4 and Blue Common3. Program CVs as shown below:

FX3 CV# CV ValueCV113 122CV114 123CV62 196CV63 64

The ditch lights will flash alternately when F4 is pressed and loco is operating in reverse.


9.3.4 Mars Lights On F1To set up a Mars lights:1. Wire lamp or LED to F1 and Blue Common2. Program CV51 to 343. Mars light will be on when F1 is turned ON. This will make it non-

directional and ON whenever F1 is ON no matter which directionthe loco is running.

9.3.5 Rotary Beacon on F1To set up a rotary beacon:1. Wire lamp or LED to F1 and Blue Common2. Program CV51 to 0383. Rotary beacon will be on when F1 is turned ON. This will make it

non-directional and ON whenever F1 is ON no matter which direc-tion the loco is running.

9.3.6 Rule 17 Dimming on F0Fwd and F0RevTo set up a rule 17 dimming:

1. Wire lamp or LED to F0F and Blue Common2. Wire lamp or LED to F0R and Blue Common3. Program CV49 to 1044. Program CV50 to 1205. When loco is reversed lights will dim on opposite end of locomotive.


9.3.7 Rule 17 AND Forward Ditch LightsTo set up a rule 17 dimming & forward ditch lights on F0F, F0R & F2:

1. Wire lamp or LED to F0F and Blue Common2. Wire lamp or LED to F0R and Blue Common3. Wire lamp or LED to F1 and Blue Common4. Wire lamp or LED to F2 and Blue Common5. Program CVs to the values in the table below.

CVs for Rule 17 dimming and Forward Ditch Lights ExampleCV# CV Value Effect49 104 Rule 17 on head light & no ditch lights in reverse50 120 Rule 17 on rear light & no ditch lights in reverse51 106 Right forward ditch light, directional

F0 & F2 must be ON for this to operate52 107 Left forward ditch light, directional

F0 & F2 must be on for this to operate62 196 High keep-alive for lamps,

rate 4 gives approx. 1 second FX effect rate63 064 5 second ditch light hold over

after F2 is turned OFFThis will cause ditch lights to be ON while moving along the track and flash when F2 is pressed at the crossing. If you want the ditch lights to be OFF while moving and come ON & flash when you press F2, program CV51 to 234 and CV52 to 235.

9.3.8 Alternating Double Pulse Strobes on F1 & F2To set up alternating double pulse strobes:

1. Wire lamp or LED to F1 and Blue Common2. Wire lamp or LED to F2 and Blue Common3. Program CV51 to 0374. Program CV52 to 053

This is an example of using the alternate effects of phases A & B with two different function outputs wired to two different LED/lamps..


9.4 Tables for Determining FX3 CV ValuesChoose a value from TABLE XI:FX3 Effect Table and a value from TABLE XII: FX3 Operational Characteristics Table. Add these two numbers together to determine the CV value to program into the CV associated with the output you are using to achieve the effect and operational characteristics you want to use.

TABLE XI: FX3 Effect Table Decimal Value to Add for CV Value Computa-tion for FX3

FX3 Effect Generated

0 No effect, normal function control of output lead1 Random flicker2 Mars light3 Flashing headlight4 Single pulse strobe5 Double pulse strobe6 Rotary beacon simulation7 Gyralite8 Rule 17 dimmable headlight, dim with F4 is active or lo-

comotive direction is opposite normal direction of travel (NDOT)

9 FRED or “end of train” light10 Right ditch light, On when loco is running forward and

F0 is on. When F2 (Horn) is on, the right ditch light flashes alternately with the left ditch light to simulate ditch light operation at a grade crossing.

11 Left ditch light. On when loco is running forward and F0 is on. When F2 (Horn) is on, the left ditch light flashes al-ternately with the right ditch light to simulate ditch light operation at a grade crossing.

12 Series 6 decoder pulse function13-16 Digitrax reserved for effects expansion.


TABLE XII: FX3 Operational Characteristics Table Value to Add for CV Value Com-putation for FX3

How the FX3 Effect Generated Will Operate

0 Forward direction, ON with function ON, effect phase A*16 Reverse direction, ON with function ON, effect phase B*32 Non directional effect, ON with function ON, effect

phase A*48* Non directional effect, ON with function ON, effect

phase B*64* Forward direction, ON with F0 ON & function ON, ef-

fect phase A*80* Forward direction, ON with F0 ON & function ON, ef-

fect phase B*96* Special logic for Forward Ditch Light or Rule 17 dim-

ming, standard Ditch Light Operation112 Special logic or Reverse Ditch Light or Rule 17 dimming ,

standard Ditch Light Operation160 Speed=0, non directional effect, phase A and function

qualifier176 Speed>0, non directional effect, phase B and function

qualifier192* Ditch light off phase A Alternate Ditch light operation-

OFF when running flash on with F2208* Ditch light off phase B Alternate Ditch light operation-

OFF when running flash on with F2*Master LightSwitch

To use F0 as the Master Light Switch, you must use 48, 64, 80, 96, 192, or 208

*Each FX3 function can be set up to have two phases. This allows you to setup ditch lights and other effects where you use two function leads that alter-nate. Each of two function outputs is wired to a different LED/Lamp andPhase A & B are set up to have them alternate being on.

9.5 FX3 Rate & Keep Alive Brightness CV62CV62 controls the keep alive/baseline off voltage for incandescent lamps. This lets you set a lamp so that it does not go completely off for a realistic simula-tion of ditch lights. LEDs behave differently than lamps so this adjustment should be set to 0.


CV62 also controls how fast/slow the programmed effect operates. This lets you adjust the flashing rate of the lights.

The settings in CV62 affect all function outputs on the decoder.

The default value for CV62 is 00 for no keep alive brightness and fastest func-tion operation rate.

Use our online CV calculator at www.digitrax.com/support/cv to compute the CV values for your specific situation. Or use the following table to determine the appropriate CV value for CV62. Simply choose a value for each character-istic and add them together to get the CV value to program into CV62.

NOTE: Lamps produce better effects. LEDs cannot be set to go completely off and are not able to simulate lighting effects as well as incandescent lamps.

TABLE XIII: CV62 Rate and Keep AliveCharacteristic Value to addKeep Alive Brightness/Base-line Off Voltage for incan-descent lamps

0-150=Lamp goes completely off15=maximum keep alive brightnessFor LEDs this should be 0

Rate of effect programmed 0, 16, 32, 48, 64, 80, 96, 112, 160, 176, 192, 208, 224, 2400=fast rate240=slowest rateStart with 64 and adjust from there

9.6 Ditch Light Hold Over Time CV63If you are using the ditch light effect in conjunction with F2, CV63 lets you set up a hold over time to control how long the ditch lights continue to blink after F2 turned off by releasing the key on the throttle. Remember that F2 is a momentary key on most Digitrax throttles that will keep Function 2 on as long as you hold the key down and then turn Function 2 off when you release the key. This allows the ditch lights to be on steady during regular operation and to begin alternate flashing when F2 (usually the horn) is activated and to continue flashing alternately for a predetermined length of time after F2 is released; just like the prototype. A value of 00 yields no hold over time, a value of 40 yields a realistic time of approximately 3 seconds. A value of 255 yields approximate-ly 20 seconds hold over time. Use our online CV calculator at www.digitrax.com/support/cv to compute the CV values for your specific situation.

Note: The settings in CV63 affect all function outputs on the decoder.


9.7 Troubleshooting FX effectsCommon problems with FX set up are:

Trying to program a decoder for FX when the decoder does not sup-port FX. Be sure the decoder you are installing has FX features. Digitrax introduced FX in the summer of 1995 so if your decoder was made before then it does not have FX capability. Since 1995 all Digitrax premium decoders have included FX. Digitrax standard and economy decoders do not have FX features.

FX effects don’t work as expected. Review the qualifiers you set up for the effect. For example, if the effect is set up to come on only when F1 and F0 are active and the loco is headed in the forward direction, be sure you have met those conditions.

9.8 Setting Up A Master Light Switch with FX3 DecodersFor FX3 decoders F0 can be used as a master light switch to turn off all lights in the locomotive when F0 if OFF. To do this, set up all functions so they are ON when F0 is ON and OFF when F0 is OFF. See TABLE XII for master light switch set up.

9.9 Lamp Selection For Prototypical Lighting ResultsAt the heart of realistic FX lighting effects is the selection of lamps that can give realistic looking results. Adjusting the brightness and locating the lamps in the model also have an effect on how realistic your installation will look.

Most modern locomotives use LEDs for lighting and over time the LEDs in current use have gotten more realistic looking. Digitrax recommends using incandescent lamps to achieve the most realistic lighting effects. Digitrax Series 6 decoders give you the option to select whether to use the FX algorithm that is best for LEDs or the one that is best for incandescent bulbs, this is set in CV61 and is set to the LED setting at the factory since most current production locos use LEDs.

For 1.5V lamps, a current setting resistor MUST be used in series with the + voltage supply to the lamp. This is usually installed in series with the “white or yellow” wire. For example operating on the DB150 “N scale” setting with 12V DCC signal on the track, we have found a resistor of approximately 500 ohms 1/4 watt gives 1.2mm lamps a good brightness level without shortening their lives too much. With 1.5V lamps, the brightness level is very sensitive to the resistor value. As you change the value of the resistor you will see that the related change in lamp brightness is “non linear.” Running a few volts higher will create too bright a light and degrade lamp life and lower voltages may result in very dim lights.


A 12 or 14 volt lamp run directly without resistors will be less sensitive to volt-age fluctuations. For regular 12 to 16 volt lamps that draw more than 50 mA when lit, we recommend that you put a 22 to 33 ohm 1/4 watt resistor in series with the lamp leads. This will ensure that the lamp “start-up cur-rents” (up to 10 times normal current draw) do not overload the outputs.

To achieve the best results, select an appropriate incandescent lamp and experi-ment with different resistors and FX settings to get just the right prototypical lighting effects for your model. To get the best looking “pulse” and “Mars” type light effects, place the lamp so that it is viewed directly. Lamp end lenses can intensify and focus the filament image when viewed end-on. Lenses can be used to create a more intense bright period without having excessive, voltages on the lamp which can reduce lamp life.

LEDs and incandescent bulbs have inherently different lighting characteristics. You may find that you prefer one or the other. Since plastic light pipes diffuse lamp outputs, installations with light pipes will look different from those where lamps that are directly viewed.

9.10 Setting Up Non-FX FunctionsWhen an FX3 decoder output is set up for no FX effect, you can use static qualifiers to customize the operation of the on/off function of that output.See the table below to determine the CV value to program for this type of operation.

TABLE XV: Static FX function set upStatic CV Value

How the Static Function Output Will Work

000 On/Off Output controlled by function map016 On/Off Output controlled by function map032 Forward qualified On/Off Output

048 Reverse qualified On/Off Output064 F0 qualified On/Off Output (Master Light Switch F0)080 F0 qualified On/Off Output (Master Light Switch F0)096 F0 On in reverse direction qualified On/Off Output112 F0 On in forward direction qualified On/Off Output160 Speed=0, non-directional qualified On/Off Output176 Speed>0, non-directional qualified On/Off Output


9.11 Advanced Consist Function Controls CV21 & CV22CV19 is the advanced consist address. When it is active, the functions within the advanced consist are individually controlled at their individual locomotive addresses.

CV21 & CV22 allow you to place specific functions under the control of the advanced consist address instead of the individual locomotive addresses. To determine the value to program into these CVs, add up the values of the func-tions you want to control in the advanced consist and program those values into the CVs. To make all CVs be controlled by the advanced consist address, pro-gram a value of 255 to both CV21 & CV22. Visit www.digitrax.com/support/cv/ for our automated CV value calculator.

TABLE XVI: CV21 ValuesFunction Controlled

Value to add

F1 1F2 2F3 4F4 8F5 22F6 50F7 100F8 200

For example: If you want to have F0, F1 and F5 controlled by the advanced consist address, program CV21 to a value of 023 and CV22 to a value of 001. All other functions will still be controlled by the decoder’s regular address.

9.12 Function MappingFunction mapping lets you set up which key on your throttle controls a given function output. More than one function output can be mapped to one function key. Use the table below to determine the CV values to program to the function mapping CVs to make the function controls on your throttle work the way you want them to work. For an automated function mapping calculator see www.digitrax.com/functionmapping/.

Each row is a throttle function control key and its associated control CV. The columns show the function outputs on your decoder can be mapped to the throttle function control keys. Function outputs are called out as the wire colors related to each one. In the case of decoders without function wires attached, check the wiring diagram to determine what color the wire would be if there

TABLE XVII: CV22 ValuesFunction Controlled

Value to add

F0 1F9 22F10 50F11 100F12 200


were one attached to the decoder. On the following table, a l in any column indicates the default throttle function control key that controls the decoder function output. More than one function output can be mapped to be controlled by a single throttle function control key. All mapping combinations are not available, only the ones shown on the TABLE XVIII below.

TABLE XVIII: Function MappingDecoder Output Colors

Throttle Function

Map CV

WhtF0F

YelF0R

GrnF1

VioF2

BrnF3

WhtYelF4

WhtGrnF5

WhtBlueF6

Default Value

Add Value to Include

001 002 004 008 016 032 064 128

F0F CV33 • 001

F0R CV34 • 002

F1 CV35 • 004

F2 CV36 • 008

F3 CV37 • 016

Decoder Output Colors

Throttle Function

Map CV

VioF2

BrnF3

WhtYelF4

WhtGrnF5

WhtBlueF6

Default Value


001 002 004 008 016

F4 CV38 • 004

F5 CV39 • 008

F6 CV40 • 016

F7 CV41 032

F8 CV42 064


Throttle Function

Map CV

WhtGrnF5

WhtBlueF6

Default Value


001 012

F9 CV43 016

F10 CV44 032

F11 CV45 064

F12 CV46 0128To map functions, place ls in the appropriate columns, add up the numbers and program the decoder with the values derived.


9.12.1 Function Mapping ExampleThe following example shows how to map functions as follows:F0 non-directional controlling both White & Yellow Outputs F1 controls GreenF2 and F8 control Violet. Turns Violet ON when either F2 or F8 is ON.F3 controls YellowF5 controls White with Yellow Stripe and White with Green StripeF6 controls nothing and F7 controls Brown


Throttle Function

Map CV

WhtF0F

YelF0R

GrnF1

VioF2

BrnF3

WhtYelF4

WhtGrnF5

WhtBlueF6

Default Value


001 002 004 008 016 032 064 128

F0F CV33 • 001

F0R CV34 • 002

F1 CV35 • 004

F2 CV36 • 008

F3 CV37 • 016


Throttle Function

Map CV

VioF2

BrnF3

WhtYelF4

WhtGrnF5

WhtBlueF6

Default Value


001 002 004 008 016

F4 CV38 • 004

F5 CV39 • • 008

F6 CV40 016

F7 CV41 • 032

F8 CV42 • 064


Throttle Function

Map CV

WhtGrnF5

WhtBlueF6

Default Value


001 012

F9 CV43 016

F10 CV44 032

F11 CV45 064

F12 CV46 0128


10.0 Decoder Utility CVsThe decoder utility CV group handles decoder reset to factory default CV val-ues, decoder lock for programming when multiple decoders are present in a locomotive and decoder ID information.

10.1 Factory Reset CV: 08CV08 is the factory reset CV for all FX3 decoders.

For Series 3, 4, 5, & 6 decoders, reset all CV values to their factory default, program CV08 to a value of 008. This will also cause sound projects to revert to the factory installed project.

For Series 3, 4, & 5 decoders, reset all CV values except for 28 step speed tables to their factory values set CV08 to a value of 009. For Series 6 sound decoders, programming CV08 to 009 will also preserve the current sound proj-ect selected by CV60.

Note: Performing a factory reset will not affect the manufacturer ID and will reset the decoder’s address to the factory default of 03, a 2 digit address.

10.2 Decoder Lock CV15, CV16 & CV54Decoder Lock lets you use more than one decoder in a locomotive and be able to program their CVs separately. Since all decoders with the same address will accept programming commands directed to that address, decoder lock avoids the inconvenience of uninstalling one or more of the decoders in order to pro-gram CVs in just one of the decoders installed in the loco. For example, if you use a mobile decoder and a sound decoder together in your locomotive, you can use the same mobile decoder address during operation and when program-ming you can unlock only the one you want to program.

Note: If you are installing only one decoder in a locomotive, there is no need to modify the default values of zero in CV15 and CV16.

Decoder Lock is a manufacturer specific CV. The instructions provided here are for Digitrax decoders. If you are using decoders from another manufactur-er, please consult your decoder’s instructions for how this feature works with the decoder you have installed.

CV16 sets the ID number of each decoder installed in the locomotive.

CV16 can be programmed to a value from 0 to 7 inclusive. This value iden-tifies a single decoder. A unique value must be assigned to each decoder installed in a particular locomotive so that it can be selectively unlocked for programming later.


Digitrax recommends using the following values for CV16 for consistency:

0: Factory Default Value-Decoder is not locked 1: Motor decoder2: Sound decoder3: Function-only decoder (e.g. for additional lights) 4-7: Additional Decoders installed in the locomotive.

CV15 selects the target decoder that will accept programming commands.

When the values in CV15 and CV16 are equal, all CVs in the target decoder can be programmed.

When the values in CV15 and CV16 are not equal, only CV15 can be pro-grammed.

CV54 allows decoder lock to be disabled. Digitrax decoders are shipped with decoder lock enabled by default.

The Factory Default Reset CV (CV08=08) will not work on decoders that are locked unless the CV15 and CV16 values are equal. This prevents the user from accidentally resetting multiple decoders at the same time, and losing the ability to separately address them for programming purposes.

Implementation Specifics:Each decoder is shipped from the factory with decoder lock enabled but are unlocked with both CV15 & CV16 programmed to a value of 0.

Before installing each unlocked decoder in the locomotive:1. Connect the target decoder to the programming track all by itself2. Write a value of 08 to CV08 to ensure CV15 and CV16 are both zero3. Read CV15 to confirm that the CV Value is 0 meaning that the decod-

er is unlocked.4. Program CV values desired into any CVs in the target decoder.

Program the address to the one you will use for all of the decodersthat will be locked together.

5. When you are finished programming the CVs, lock the decoder bywriting CV16 to the desired ID number, for example 02 for a sounddecoder. This step locks the target decoder to ID 02.

6. Disconnect the target decoder from the programming track and installit in the locomotive

7. Repeat in turn for each decoder to be installed in the locomotive. Notethat this decoder lock method can be performed even when only awrite-only programming method is available. Also, it is possible to use a “legacy” non-lock version decoder along with new lock


capable decoder(s). In this case, program the decoders with the lock feature first, locking each one when programming is complete, and leave the non-lockable decoder to be programmed last.

To access a decoder after installation:1. When you want to program CVs in the target decoder with ID XX

again, unlock it by programming CV15 to match the ID XX pro-grammed in CV16. In the case of the example decoder, program CV15 to 02.

2. Once the decoder is unlocked, program CVs as desired.3. When programming is finished, lock the decoder by programming

CV15 to 0.

To identify the decoder(s) present in a locomotive:1. Write a 0 to CV152. Attempt to read a 0 from CV16.3. If no acknowledge is received, there is no decoder with ID 0. If an

acknowledge is received, a decoder with ID 0 exists.

Repeat this process for ID 1 through 7 to check for those IDs. Because the ID values are low, a successful read is usually quick. An unsuccessful read, i.e. when the decoder is not present, will take some time on many existing com-mand stations, but eventually give an answer.

10.3 Decoder ID CVs 105, 106, 07, 08CVs 105 & 106 are user private ID CVs. These can be programmed to any value you choose.

CV07 is the version ID. This is a read only CV that can’t be changed.

CV08 is the decoder reset CV which also contains the manufacturer ID. The manufacturer ID is read only and can’t be changed.

11.0 Digitrax SoundFX SystemDigitrax SoundFX® decoders come “ready to run” with a pre-loaded sound project appropriate for the locomotive each decoder was designed to fit. Decoders not built for specific locos come preloaded with a multiple scheme sound project that gives the choice of a either generic diesel or generic steam sound project or, in the case of the multi-scheme project, several different choices including both steam and diesel. Some sound projects include addi-tional sounds such as horns, whistles and bells that can be used to customize schemes within the project.


Using Digitrax SoundLoader and your PR3 Xtra, you can change the sound projects your decoder plays. SoundLoader runs on your PC and connects to your sound decoder using the Digitrax PR3 Xtra programmer. With SoundLoader you can easily manage the sound project files your decoders uses. If you simply want to browse inside sound projects, you can use SoundLoader without a PR3.

11.1 Sound Decoder InstallationSound decoder installation takes more space than standard decoder installation because of the speakers, baffles and sound hold up capacitors that are needed to successfully produce consistent sound in a real world layout environment. Wired sound decoders have sound harnesses in addition to the regular decoder installation harnesses:

10 Pin Sound Harnessfor 6 Series HO Decoders

Pin 1 – Brown – F3Pin 2 – Red – Not used

Pin 3 – Red – speaker (+ polarity)

Pin 4 –Yellow – F4

Pin 5 – Green – not usedPin 6 – Blue – to sound cap +

Pin 7 – Violet – not usedPin 8 – Black – speaker (– polarity)Pin 9 – White – cam input (steam)Pin 10 – Black – to sound cap -

6 Pin Sound Harnessfor 6 Series N Scale Decoders

Pin 1 – Grey-Cam Input (Steam)Pin 2 – Red – speaker (+ polarity)

Pin 3 – Black-speaker (- polarity)

Pin 5 – Red-Capacitor (+ polarity)Pin 6 – Black-Capacitor (- polarity

11.1.1 Speaker and Baffle InstallationThe sound performance of any sound decoder depends on the speaker(s), how it is installed and the baffle or rear enclosure. Your Digitrax SoundFX decoder was equipped with speaker at the factory. You may choose to use a different speaker as long as it does not exceed the decoder’s specifications. Some speak-ers come with baffles and others do not. Check the installation instructions for the particular decoder you are using. If your decoder has a box speaker, it is al-ready mounted in a baffle however, additional baffles or other mounting systems may be used to improve sound performance.

Baffles isolate the speaker diaphragm’s front sound waves from the rear sound


waves that are “out of phase”. This minimizes sound cancellation, particularly at lower frequencies. For best sound generation, the cubic volume of the baffle should be as large as possible and the baffle walls should be acoustically rigid to prevent acoustic interference.

Practical baffle materials are plastic, cardboard and sheet metal. Common items such as cardboard tubes, soda caps, or 35mm film canisters can be modified to create reasonable baffles in the available space inside your locomotive. Most N and HO scale locomotives have limited internal volume inside the shell, requiring ingenuity to get best sound performance out of the limited space avail-able.

11.1.2 Sound Hold Up Capacitor or Power Xtender?All series Digitrax SoundFX decoders have an electrolytic capacitor either wired to the harness or provided separately in the package. Installation of this cap is necessary for reliable operation. However, it will keep the sound alive in the presence of short power interruptions.

If you are using a series 6 sound decoder and you have problems with power in-terruptions that interfere with the operation of your locomotives and the sound, you may want to consider using a PX power extender module. Power Xtenders are engineered to provide additional power storage capacity to allow locos to continue running and producing sound even when electrical signal is lost for a short amount of time.

11.2 Programming SoundFX DecodersYour Digitrax SoundFX decoder is ready to run and will operate and generate sound using address 03 with no additional programming. See the instruction sheet that came with your decoder for information about the default sound scheme and other sound schemes that may be available in the decoder.

On your Digitrax system, simply select the locomotive’s address and the sound will start. On some other DCC systems, it may be necessary to select the loco-motive address AND send a command to start the sounds.

For a more prototypical railroading experience, your decoder can be customized for your specific locomotive by programming various Configuration Variables. Digitrax sound decoders use the same CVs as non-sound decoders for control-ling everything except sound. Digitrax sound decoders can be programmed us-ing either a programming track or with the operations mode using the main line.

Before changing any CVs, it is useful to run it on the factory default address 03 to check the installation. The following sections detail CVs commonly used in Digitrax Sound Decoders.


Consult the instruction sheet provided with your decoder or the project descrip-tion area of the sound project (.spj) file you have loaded into the decoder to determine how CVs are used in the specific decoder and in the specific sound project file.

For more information on general decoder installation and programming tech-niques and examples visit www.digitrax.com.

CAUTION: Programming track voltage must not exceed 16V when pro-gramming SoundFX decoders.

11.3 Change Sound Scheme: CV60The factory supplied sound project in your decoder may more than one sound scheme. 8-bit decoders have dual schemes with generic steam and diesel and 16-bit decoders have multiple schemes. Downloaded sound projects may alsohave more than one sound scheme included. The sound scheme that the decoderwill play is selectable by programming the appropriate value into CV60. Consultthe Instruction Sheet that came with your decoder or the project description inthe .spj file for available CV values for the particular sound project downloadedin your locomotive.

11.4 Customizing Sound Schemes CV132-CV256SoundFX sound CVs in the range of CV132 to CV256 let you customize your decoder without having to reprogram or change the installed sound scheme.


11.5 Diesel Notching CV132 & 155Sound CV155 customizes diesel engine notching and CV132 controls notching rate.

TABLE XIX: Diesel Notching CVsCV# CV

ValueEffect

CV155 00default

Automatic notching Changes diesel RPM settings at 8 distinct throttle speeds controlled by CV132

CV155 01 Semi-automatic notching. F6 ON increases current notch setting.F7 ON decreases current notch setting towards the lowest current throttle notch setting

CV155 02 Manual notchingF6 ON increases current notchF7 ON decreases current notch without regard for current throttle setting which con-trols just motor speed

CV132 127 default

Notch Rate 0-255

11.6 Steam Chuff/Cam & Gear Rotation Trim CV133 & 134The cam input is available for steam installations to synchronize chuffing.

CV133 controls the Steam Chuff/Cam configuration in the decoder. The range of values for this CV is 01-128.

Enable an external cam by setting CV133 to the value of 128. Install a cam on the cam lead to provide feedback that will match chuffing to the actual move-ment of the locomotive.

To get synchronized chuffing without installing a cam, Set CV 133 to a value between 01 and 127. The factory default is 63. This lets you approximate the diameter of the driver from 1-127 inches to synchronize the chuffing. You may need to experiment with this setting to get the best result.

CV134 controls the gear rotation trim where a value of 32 equals a 100% ratio.


11.7 Bell and Air Effect Rates CV146-149CV146 controls the bell rate or time between ring of the bell, it has a range from 1-100 with each increment adding 24ms of delay.

CV147 controls the air drier rate, it has a range from 1-64 with each increment adding approximately 2 seconds. CV148 controls the Compressor/ Air pump start rate.

CV148 controls the Compressor run rate.

CV149 controls how long the Compressor/Air Pump runs.

11.8 Auto Coupler Sequence Threshold Value CV151CV151 controls the threshold at which coupler and brake sounds areautomatically played when locomotive direction is changed and function3 is enabled. CV151 has a range of 0-60.

11.9 Example: Changing a Sound Scheme on SDXH166DEach sound project whether it is pre loaded into your decoder or you have down-loaded it from Sound Depot may have multiple sound schemes and other sounds available for use in your locomotive. This information is specific to each indi-vidual sound project. Please consult the instruction sheet for your decoder if you are using preloaded sounds or the project description included in the .spj files if you are using sounds downloaded from Sound Depot to deter-mine the CV values to program.

The following is an example of the sound project that is pre-loaded in the SDXH166D. It has 8 different sound schemes, 6 diesel and 2 steam. One of these schemes can be selected to be played by the locomotive by programming CV60 to the appropriate value from the table below.

In addition, each diesel scheme can be configured with one of 8 different horns using CV150 and one of 4 different bells using CV157.

Each Steam scheme can be configured with one of 3 whistles using CV150 and one of 4 bells using CV157.

To enable playable whistle for your selected horn or whistle add 128 to the selected value (ex. Playable volume on horn 2 is enabled with a value of 130, 02+128=130).


TABLE XX: SDXH166D Sound Scheme Selection with CV60 ExampleCV60 set to Sound Scheme CV150 set to CV157 set to

0 GP38 Diesel 0= default 1-7= alt horns128-135 = Playable horns 0=default 1-3 = alt bells

1 GE Evolution Diesel

1= default 0-7= alt horns128-135 = Playable horns 0=default 1-3 = alt bells

2 SD70 Diesel 2= default 0-7= alt horns128-135 = Playable horns 0=default 1-3 = alt bells

3 GP10 Diesel 3= default 0-7= alt horns128-135 = Playable horns 0=default 1-3 = alt bells

4 RS1 Diesel 4= default 0-7= alt horns128-135 = Playable horns 0=default 1-3 = alt bells

5 C420 Diesel 5= default 0-7= alt horns128-135 = Playable horns 0=default 1-3 = alt bells

6 Steam type 1 (based on 3985)

0= default 0-2= alt whistles128-130 = Playablewhistles

0=default 1-3 = alt bells

7 Steam type 2 (based on K27)

1= default 0-2= alt whistles128-130 = Playablewhistles

0=default 1-3 = alt bells

11.10 Loading Sound Projects into your SoundFX DecoderYour sound decoder’s sound project can be changed using a Digitrax PR3 pro-grammer and your computer with SoundLoader 2.0 software. Both the software and a number of alternate sound project files are available from the Digitrax Sound Depot web site at no charge. SoundLoader can be used to view sound project descriptions, CV uses and function information.

It takes only a few minutes to download the new sound to your decoder. The following tables show the CVs used in SDXH166D and how it is set up at the factory to operate various sounds using your throttle. (Table on next page.)

CV60 selects a sound scheme from the sound project (.spj) that is loaded in the decoder. Once you have downloaded a project into the decoder, the sound scheme is selected by programming a CV and no PR3 or computer is needed for selecting a scheme.

Note that each sound project can use CVs in a different way. Please con-sult the documentation for the specific sound project you are running in your decoder to determine how the CVs are used.


CV# Used For Range Default Value

01 2 Digit Address 03

11Sound Time Out, 06 = Sound ends when loco address is de-selected, 00=Sound stays on after loco is de-selected

06

29Configuration Register - Advanced or Standard speed steps, 2 or 4 digit addressing, Analog Mode, Normal direction of travel, speed tables

06

49 Forward Light (F0F) - Headlight 00

50 Reverse Light (F0R) - Reverse Light 00

51 Function 1 00

52 Function 2 00

58 Master Volume (F8 used for Mute) 1=min 00=max 00-15 09

60 Sound Scheme Select 00-07 00

132 Notch Rate 00-255 127

133Steam Chuff/CAM config, 128=>EXT cam, 1-127=>DRIVER diameter in inches

01-128 63

134 Steam Gear Ration Trim, 32 = 100% Ratio 00-255 32

135 Mute Volume 00-64 00

140 Prime Mover / Chuff Volume 00-64 60

141 Bell Volume 00-64 25

142 Horn/Whistle Volume 00-64 60

143 Time-Scattered Air Effects Volume 00-64 30

145 Misc Volume Levels 00-64 40

146 Bell Ring Rate (1=24 milliseconds) 01-100 07

147 Air Drier Rate (1= approx. 2 seconds) 01-64 02

148 Compressor Run Rate 00-255 30

149 Air Compress On Time 00-255 20

150Horn/Whistle Setup (Default=0, Playable Horn=1, Alternate Horn=2 +128 for playable volume.)

00-07or 128-135

00

151Auto Coupler Sequence Threshold Value-Peak speed to allow auto coupler/brake when direction change occurs and F3 is ON

00-64 48

152 Project Author ID, Digitrax=221 221

153 Project ID 168

154 Steam Blow down / Safety Volume 0-64 60

155 Notching/Slip Mode: 00=Automatic, 00

157 Bell Selector 00-03 00


Function Used For Notes

F0 Lights

F1 Bell

F2 Horn/Whistle CV150 sets mode

F3 Coupler crash Auto coupler/brake set by CV151 max speed

F4 Air feature disableF4 off enables pop-off,drier and starts compressor/air pump

F5Diesel = Dynamic brakeFans Steam = WaterPump turbine

F6 Diesel = Notch UpSteam = Blow down

Notch UP if CV155=01 or02

F7Crossing Gate Air hornORDiesel = Notch DOWNSteam = Wheel slip

Notch DOWN, ifCV155 = 01 OR 02(Crossing Gate active if in Diesel mode and CV155=0)

F8 Mute Control F8 ON is mute

F9 Brake squeal

F10 Crossing GateAir horn Sequence

F11 Steam = Greaser

F12 Steam = Safety Blow off

11.11 SoundFX DC Operation ModeDigitrax SoundFX decoders will operate on smooth DC power. The sound will not start until approximately 7 volts is applied to the track and there will be no “start up sound.”

11.12 Downloading & Installing Sound Projects1. Find the sound project your want to download on SoundDepot.2. Connect your PR3 programmer to the programming track on your layout.3. Place your SoundFX decoder equipped locomotive on the programmingtrack.4. Open the SoundLoader application.5. In the Sound Loader application, open the .spj file with the sound project youwant to load into the decoder.6. Click on “Program” and wait for the programming process to complete (usu-ally 60-90 seconds for an 8 bit project and up to 10 minutes for a 16-bit soundproject).7. That’s it. You’ve just customized your locomotive.

11.13 Modifying Sound Project FilesYou can customize any sound project using your own recordings. You can replace any locomotive sound segment (a chuff, or a brake squeal, etc.) with an


actual sound recording you’ve made. You do this with the SoundLoader utility in conjunction with a Digitrax PR3 programmer. Once you’ve customized the project, you can save the sound project (.spj) file with a new name. This will let you use your custom project over and over again.

We encourage you to share your customized sound projects with other modelers by submitting them to the Sound Depot at www.digitrax.com/sound-depot/sub-mit/. We are happy to post customer projects on the Sound Depot! Please limit file sizes for upload to less than 20mb.

See www.digitrax.com/sound-depot/ for more information on how to create new sound project files from your own recordings.

11.14 SoundFX Decoder TroubleshootingIf the sound does not start in the decoder1. Make sure you have selected the locomotive address on a throttle. The

sound will not run unless the locomotive is addressed in the system.2. Make sure F8 is not set to mute the sound.3. Check your installation to make sure the decoder is installed

properly.

If the sound output sounds distorted1. Check the speaker cone for magnetic debris that may have collected there.

Debris on the speaker will cause a loss of sound quality and must be re-moved.

2. Be sure that the CV58 volume is not set at a level that is too high for thespeaker being used.

If the sound in your decoder shuts down after you stop it and you are not using a Digitrax system for control. On some DCC systems decoders are not addressed by DCC packets after the locomotive is set to 0 speed. In this case after the CV11 timeout elapses (6 second default), sound will “shutdown.”. To defeat this feature, set CV11=00 to remove the timeout and shutdown. To make sounds, the decoder must have a command addressed to it at least once.

If you have trouble reading back CVs on the programming track, this may be due to insufficient current draw. Of course you can always just re-program the CV value into a CV to get the desired results, even if reading CVs does not work. OPS mode is recommended for writing to (programming) all CVs except CV01, CV17 & CV18 (2 digit and 4 digit addresses). If a second DCC decoder is present that is not SoundFX compatible then correct read back of CV data is not possible, since the NMRA CV read back was not designed for multiple decoder read back. I have loaded a new scheme but the CVs and Functions are not what I expected. Load the sound project you programmed and then select the


view>project description” menu and then read the text file on the screen that defines how that project in particular uses CVs and functions for sound genera-tion and configuration.

12.0 Operation With Digitrax Command StationsDigitrax decoders support direct and paged programming. Digitrax decoders are designed to operate with command stations that are compatible with DCC industry standards. If your command station and/or programmer are designed to interoperate with other DCC products, you will be able to operate with few problems. If you experience problems when running Digitrax decoders with other manufacturers’ command stations please refer to the command station manual first to determine if any special programming or set up is required to run Digitrax decoders with the system you are using. If there is still a problem, please check the Tech Support Depot on our website for articles related to the non-Digitrax equipment you are using.

Some Digitrax default CV values are loaded as “0s” which may not be read back correctly by some programmers. This does not affect operation, only read back. You can always program values that are within a particular system’s operating range with that system’s programmer. Some systems may require a value of 1 instead of 0 in some CVs.

13.0 Operating Digitrax Decoders On DC TrackAnalog operation is when Digitrax decoders are operated on DC or convention-ally controlled layouts. Analog mode conversion is a feature of all Digitrax decoders, that allows a decoder equipped loco run on a DC layout without hav-ing to remove or re-program the decoder. There are a few things you need to know about analog operation:

· Digitrax decoder equipped locomotives will not move until the voltageis above 5 to 6 volts DC. When operating decoder equipped locos on DC power, increase the voltage quickly from zero to five volts for best operation.

· Decoder equipped locos may not operate smoothly on “pulse power.”The decoders should be driven from a quality smooth DC power supply when on a conventional layout. Some DC throttles/power supplies with proprietary control systems, such as “tracking control,” exhibit pulse power characteristics and may give unpredictable oper-ation with DCC equipped locos.

· Decoders that use the Digitrax 9 (HO) or 8 (N) Pin Decoder Interfacecan be easily unplugged from the harness installed in the loco and replaced with a Dummy Plug (sold separately). Using the dummy


plug converts the locomotive to DC operation only. Locomotives with the dummy plug will run on conventional layouts without sac-rificing low speed performance and can run using pulse power. To run the loco on DCC again, remove the dummy plug & re-install the decoder.

14.0 Decimal & Hex NumbersDigitrax produced our first throttles in 1992. Many of these throttles are still in use on layouts today. Over the years as technology has improved, different Digitrax throttles have used a combination of decimal, modified hexadecimal and hexadecimal numbers for entering CV#s and CV values. All current pro-duction Digitrax products use decimal notation. Information is provided on www.digitrax.com in the Products and Support Sections for retired products that use hexadecimal notation.

15.0 Warranty & Repair InformationDigitrax gives a one year “No Worries” Warranty against manufacturing defects and accidental customer damage on all Digitrax command stations, boosters, throttles, decoders, power supplies and layout control devices.

Digitrax gives a 90 day warranty against manufacturing defects on accessory products.

That’s it! A simple, straightforward warranty with no tricky language!

Please return all items covered under warranty and other repair items directly to Digitrax, Inc. DO NOT return warranty or repair items to the place of pur-chase.

For complete warranty and repair details see www.digitrax.com. Please contact Digitrax tech support by e-mail at [email protected] before sending anything to us for repair so that we can try and resolve the problem. Except as expressly stated in the full warranty statement, there are no warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to any warranties of merchantability or fit-ness for a particular purpose.

In the event that you need a repair for a decoder or other Digitrax product that is out of warranty we will make every effort repair or replace it for a small charge. For full details of repairs available, go to www.digitrax.com, click on Support, then click on Warranty and Returns to begin the repair process. Please


complete the online form, print it out and send it in with your items for repair. Proof of date of purchase is required for all warranty repairs.

In some cases with Digitrax lower cost decoders, the cost to purchase a new decoder may be less than the repair charge. Also some older models are no longer repairable or replaceable due to unavailability of components needed for these repairs.

FCC InformationRadio or TV Interference: (this information is MANDATED by the FCC) This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television recep-tion, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

-Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.-Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.-Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different formthat to which the receiver is connected.

-Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Note that any modifications to the equipment not expressly approved by Digitrax voids the users authority to operate under and be in compliance with CFR 47 rules, as administered by the Federal Communication Commission. Digitrax believes any conscientiously installed equipment following guidelines in this manual would be unlikely to experience RFI problems.For Canadian Users:“This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for Radio noise emis-sion from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulation of the Canadian Department of Communications.”Le present appariel numerique n emet pas de bruits radio-electriques depas-sant les limites applicables aux appareils numeriques de la classe B prescrites dans le Reglement sur le brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des Communications du Canada.


IndexSymbols2 Digit Address 30–31, 34, 35, 36, 39, 44, 66, 774 Digit Address 31, 35, 38

AAcceleration 16, 25, 30, 32, 37, 40Address “00” 35Air Effects 75Analog Mode Conversion 24, 31, 36, 37, 44, 78

DCC Functions on DC 37

BBack EMF Amount (Intensity) 33, 47Back EMF-Scaleable Speed Stabilization 7, 8, 33, 43, 47, 48, 49Bell 73, 75, 76Board Replacement Decoder 12, 13Brake Generator Example 37

CCam Input 72Capacitor 10, 12, 17, 51, 70Choosing a Locomotive 9Choosing The “Right” Decoder 10Chuff 72, 75Configuration Variables Definition 30CV01 Two Digit Address 30, 35, 77CV02 V-Start 42, 43, 44, 49CV03 Acceleration Rate 30, 40CV04 Deceleration Rate 30, 40CV05 V-Max 42, 43, 44CV06 V-Mid 42, 43, 44CV08 & CV09 Reset CVs 34, 66, 67CV17 & CV18 4 Digit Address 31, 35, 77CV29 Configuration Register 25, 26, 30, 32, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 42, 44, 45

Most common values for CV29 39CVs Configuration Variables 28CVs Sound 74, 75CV Table 31, 31–34


DDCC Ready Locomotive 12DC Decoder Operation 78DC Sound Operation 76Deceleration 16, 28, 30, 37, 40Decoder ID CVs 68Decoder Lock 32, 34, 46, 47, 66Decoder Part Numbering System 7Decoder Programming 28

Direct Programming Mode 28Operations Mode Programming 28, 29, 70Paged Mode Programming 28Physical Register Mode Programming 29Service Mode Programming 28

Diesel Notching 72Digitrax On-Line Decoder Selector 10Direct Programming Mode 28Ditch Lights 54–60Dummy Plug 78Dynamic Compensation Back EMF 33, 47, 76

FFunction Mapping 33, 63, 64, 65Functions 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 19, 23, 33, 34, 50, 52, 53, 57, 58, 59, 60,

62, 63, 64, 73, 74Function Outputs 16

FX3 6, 7, 8, 9, 16, 17, 21, 23, 24, 29, 30, 37, 41, 46, 47, 50, 52, 53, 54, 55, 58, 59, 61, 62, 66

GGear Rotation Trim 72

HHex 79

IInstallation 6, 8, 8–15, 17–18, 20–21, 24, 25, 29, 46, 50, 53, 61, 68–71, 77, 80

LLamps, incandescent 16, 17, 23, 24, 25, 51, 57, 59, 60, 61, 62LED/Lamp Selector 50, 51LED Lighting 16, 17, 19, 24, 51, 59, 60, 61, 62Lighting


Directional Lights 7, 15, 23, 56, 57, 59, 62, 65Ditch Lights 33, 54, 55, 57, 59, 60Gyralite 58Headlight 23, 52, 58Master Light Switch 17, 52, 61Rotary Beacon 56Rule 17 Dimming 56Strobe Lights 57, 58

Lock Decoder 32, 34, 46, 47, 66LocoMotion 16, 32, 40, 47LocoNet Cable Tester-LT1 18, 19, 27

MMaster Light Switch 17, 52, 61Medium Plug/Socket 12Motor Isolation 9, 21–22Multiple Decoders in One Loco 32, 34, 46, 47, 66

NNormal Direction of Travel 31, 75

OOperations Mode Programming 29, 70

PPaged Programming Mode 28Physical Register Mode 29Plug ‘n play 12Power Xtender 26, 70PR3 Decoder Programmer 29, 69, 74, 76, 77

QQuarter Trick 26, 27Quiet Operation (SuperSonic) 33, 52

RRead CVs 12, 20, 24, 29, 53, 68, 77, 78Reset CVs to Default Values 34, 66, 67Rotary Beacon 56Rule 17 Dimming 56

SScaleable Speed Stabilization (Back EMF) 33, 47, 49


Service Mode Programming 28SoundDepot 76SoundFX Decoders 5, 17, 23, 68–71, 74, 76–77SoundLoader 69, 74, 76, 77Sound Projects 5, 25, 30, 66, 68, 69, 71, 76, 77Sound Schemes 70, 73Speakers & Baffles 69Speed Tables

Loadable Speed Tables 25, 31, 36, 39, 41, 42, 43, 44, 46Three Step Simple Speed Table 32, 42, 43–45Throttle Response Curve 41

spj 71, 73, 74, 76, 77Stall Current 10–11Static Compensation Back EMF 33, 47, 49, 62Steam Chuff 72, 75Strobe Lights 57, 58SuperSonic (Quiet Operation) 33, 52Switching Speed 32, 46, 47

TThrottle Response Curve 41Torque Compensation 32, 46, 47Track Problems 23, 26, 27, 49Track Voltage 24, 71, 76, 77Transponding (Feedback) 15, 23, 33, 50–51Troubleshooting 61Troubleshooting FX Effects 61Troubleshooting Mobile Decoders

LocoNet Cables 27The Quarter Trick 27

Troubleshooting SoundFX Decoders 77

VV-max 31, 42, 43, 44V-Mid 31, 42, 43, 44V-start 31, 42, 43, 44, 49

WWarranty 79Write CVs 24, 29, 67


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Digitrax Tech Support Depot 24/7/365www.digitrax.com/supportContains links to all instructions sheets and manuals, application notes, videos and tons of helpful information.

Digitrax Decoder Selectorwww.digitrax.com/decoderselectorHelps you find which decoder will fit in a particular locomotive.

Digitrax CV Calculatorswww.digitrax.com/support/cvCalculate a CV value to program your locomotive,

Digitrax Tool Box AppDownload our Mobile App for on the go help at your fingertips. This app contains links to all manuals and instruction sheets, videos, CV calculator, decoder selector, news and events & dealer locater.www.digitrax.com/toolbox

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